Gaming display with moveable indicator and methods of use

ABSTRACT

A gaming apparatus includes a display device having a display surface. The display surface has several indicia. A display device actuator is in communication with the display surface and is configured to move the display surface. An indicator can indicate at least one of the indicia appearing on the display surface as a game outcome. An indicator actuator is in communication with the indicator and can position the indicator. A controller is in communication with the display device actuator and the indicator actuator. The controller can position the display surface and the indicator in order to convey a game outcome. The indicator may move in a linear or circular manner. In another embodiment several stationary indicators may be positioned around the display surface in order to convey a game outcome.

CROSS REFERENCES TO RELATED PATENT APPLICATIONS

This application is a continuation-in-part application of U.S. patentapplication having Ser. No. 11/143,140, filed Jun. 1, 2005, entitled“Gaming Display With Moveable Indicator and Methods of Use” and U.S.patent application having Ser. No. 11/143,205, filed Jun. 1, 2005,entitled “Gaming Display With Moveable Indicator and Methods of Use”,which is a continuation-in-part application of U.S. patent applicationhaving Ser. No. 10/806,636, filed Mar. 23, 2004 entitled “Gaming DeviceWith Moveable Indicator and Methods of Use”.

This application also claims priority to U.S. provisional patentapplication having Ser. No. 60/823,037, filed Aug. 21, 2006, entitled“Gaming Display With Movable Indicator and Methods of Use”.

All of the above referenced applications are hereby expresslyincorporated by reference in their entireties.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates to gaming devices and, more particularly,to a gaming device having indicators to indicate a prize to a player.

BACKGROUND

Gaming devices are well known in the art and a large variety of gamingdevices have been developed. In general, gaming devices allow users orplayers to play a game. In many casino-type gaming devices, the outcomeof the game depends, at least in part, on a randomly generated event.For example, a gaming device may use a random number generator togenerate a random or pseudo-random number (hereinafter, both types arereferred to as a “random number”).

The random number can be used to determine a game outcome. For example,the random number may then be compared to a predefined table todetermine a corresponding outcome of the event. If the random numberfalls within a certain range of numbers on the table, the player may winthe corresponding predefined prize. The table may also contain displayinformation that allows the gaming device to generate a display thatcorresponds to the outcome of the game. The gaming device may presentthe outcome of the game on a large variety of display devices, such asmechanical spinning reels or video screens.

Some gaming devices award bonus prizes in addition to prizes that areawarded in a primary game. Of course, the prize in the primary game maysimply be the opportunity to play the bonus game. A bonus prize isgenerally defined as a prize in addition to the prize obtained from theprimary game and that is awarded to the player when a predefined eventoccurs. An example of a bonus game can be found in U.S. Pat. No.5,848,932 to Adams. Adams discloses a primary game having three spinninggame reels and a bonus game having a bonus display with one spinningwheel. The spinning wheel is divided into multiple sections, and eachsection has a symbol representing a prize. When predetermined indiciaare displayed on the spinning game reels of the primary game, the wheelof the bonus display spins and stops. The bonus prize is displayed asthe symbol on the wheel being pointed to by a pointer. The bonus prizeis awarded in addition to any prizes awarded in the primary game.Another bonus game is disclosed in Baerlocher et al. (U.S. Pat. No.6,336,863). Baerlocher et al. discloses a slot machine with a bonusaward display. The bonus award display has a bonus wheel and amechanical, movable pointer.

One of the problems associated with the devices disclosed in thesereferences is that the outcome of the bonus game is communicated to theplayer almost immediately. When a bonus game is triggered, a bonus awardis selected, displayed, and awarded to the player. The player can seewhat the outcome of the game is immediately after the pointers havestopped moving. What has long been needed is a device that utilizesintermediate steps between the occurrence of the bonus event and theawarding of the bonus prize to add an additional element of anticipationand excitement for the players. It is further desired that theintermediate steps involve an eye-catching display. Another problemassociated with Adams and Baerlocher et al. is that they utilize a plaincombination of wheel and pointer. The applicants have discovered morethings that can be done to display devices to make them more attractiveand interesting to play.

Generally, bonus prizes are awarded in order to increase the excitementand enjoyment experienced by players, which attracts more players to thegame and encourages players to play longer. When this occurs, the gamingdevices tend to be more commercially successful relative to other gamingdevices. A shortcoming of present bonus games is that they do notsufficiently allow players to interact with the gaming device, includingduring bonus games.

Other attempts have been made to provide player interaction. U.S. Pat.No. 5,788,573 to Baerlocher et al. (hereinafter, “Baerlocher”) purportsto suggest a gaming device with an electronic “wheel of fortune game.”Several flippers appear to indicate positions on the wheel. Baerlocherappears to suggest that the player may be allowed to choose whichflipper is used to select an indicia on the wheel. The player, however,does not appear to have any control over the position of the flipper andthe flippers do not appear to be capable of moving to differentpositions.

U.S. Pat. No. 6,309,300 to Glavich (hereinafter, “Glavich”) and U.S.Pat. No. 6,439,995 to Hughs-Baird et al. (hereinafter, “Hughs-Baird”)purport to suggest a gaming system having a bonus feature where a playermay be allowed to select a number of selectable items, which may beprize representations, on a video display. Glavich and Hughs-Baird donot appear to suggest using prize indicators, moveable prize indicators,or allowing a player to position a prize indicator.

SUMMARY

Advantages

The various embodiments of the present invention may, but do notnecessarily, achieve one or more of the following advantages:

provide a highly attractive and entertaining device for conductinggames;

provide a highly attractive and entertaining device for displayingprizes;

the ability to attract more patrons to play a game;

the ability to encourage players to play longer on a gaming apparatus;

provide at least one attractive prize indicator;

provide a unique combination of reel-type display and moveableindicator;

provide a moving display and a stationary indicator;

provide a moving display and a rotary indicator;

provide a moving display and a belt mounted indicator;

provide a display for displaying indicia on a first axis and a moveableindicator configured to indicate an indicium from a second axisorthogonal to the first axis;

allow players to control the movement of a prize indicator;

provide a moving display surface;

provide a moving display with a relatively long path length;

provide a display that allows for a relatively larger number of indiciato be displayed;

provide a display that allows for relatively larger indicia to bedisplayed;

provide a game that includes moving to another prize when certainindicia are indicated;

create additional suspense for players by increasing the length of timebetween the start of a game and the display of the game outcome;

allow players to control the movement of a moving display surface;

provide the illusion that the player can influence the outcome of agame;

provide a game that allows for more player interaction;

utilize intermediate steps between the occurrence of the bonus event andthe awarding of the bonus prize; and

provide an additional element of anticipation and excitement forplayers.

These and other advantages may be realized by reference to the remainingportions of the specification, claims, and abstract.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF CERTAIN ASPECTS OF THE INVENTION

In one embodiment, the present invention comprises a gaming apparatusthat includes a display device comprising a display surface. The displaysurface comprises a plurality of indicia. A display device actuator maybe in communication with the display surface and may be configured tomove the display surface on a first predetermined path. A rotaryindicator may be included that may be configured to indicate at leastone of the indicia appearing on the display surface. An indicatoractuator may be in communication with the rotary indicator and may beconfigured to move the rotary indicator along a circumference. Acontroller may be in communication with at least one of the displaydevice actuators and the indicator actuator. The controller may beconfigured to position at least one of the display device actuators andthe rotary indicator so that the rotary indicator indicates an indiciumappearing on the display surface that conveys a game outcome.

In at least one alternative embodiment, the present invention isdirected to a gaming method. A gaming device may be provided. The gamingdevice may comprise a rotary indicator and a moveable display surface.The moveable display surface may comprise a plurality of indicia. Aplayer may be allowed to place a wager.

The display surface may be moved along a first path. The rotaryindicator may be rotated along a second path. A game outcome isdetermined that may correspond to, and be indicated by, at least one ofthe indicia appearing on the display surface. The rotary indicator maybe stopped. The display surface may be stopped. In at least oneembodiment, when the display surface and the rotary indicator arestopped, the rotary indicator indicates an indicium on the moveabledisplay surface that corresponds to the game outcome.

In another embodiment, the present invention includes a gaming apparatushaving a display device. The display device has a display surface thatis moveable along a first path. The display surface includes severalindicia. An actuator is coupled with the display surface such that theactuator can move the display surface along the first path. At least twoindicators are configured to indicate at least one of the indicia. Acontroller is in communication with the actuator and the indicators. Thecontroller is configured to position the display surface and operate theindicators such that at least one of the indicia conveys a game outcome.

In an embodiment, the present invention is directed to a gaming method.The gaming method includes determining a game outcome and moving adisplay surface along a first path. The display surface has severalindicia that are arranged in a rows and columns. The display surface isstopped and at least two indicators are illuminated such that at leastone of the indicia is indicated as the game outcome.

In an additional embodiment, the present invention is a gaming apparatusthat includes a display device that has a moveable display surface. Themoveable display surface has several indicia. An indicator device ismounted adjacent to the display device and is adapted to point to atleast one of the indicia. The indicator device includes a belt and anindicator mounted to the belt. A positioning mechanism is coupled to thebelt and can move the belt.

In still another embodiment, the present invention is directed to agaming method. The gaming method includes determining a game outcome andmoving a display surface that has several indicia. An indicator ismoved. The display surface is stopped and the indicator is stopped suchthat the indicator conveys the game outcome by pointing to at least oneof the indicia.

The above description sets forth, rather broadly, the more importantfeatures of the present invention so that the detailed description ofthe preferred embodiment that follows may be better understood andcontributions of the present invention to the art may be betterappreciated. There are, of course, additional features of the inventionthat will be described below and will form the subject matter of claims.In this respect, before explaining at least one preferred embodiment ofthe invention in detail, it is to be understood that the invention isnot limited in its application to the details of the construction and tothe arrangement of the components set forth in the following descriptionor as illustrated in the drawings. The invention is capable of otherembodiments and of being practiced and carried out in various ways.Also, it is to be understood that the phraseology and terminologyemployed herein are for the purpose of description and should not beregarded as limiting.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Certain embodiments of the invention are shown in the accompanyingdrawings wherein:

FIG. 1 a is substantially a front elevation view of an embodiment of thegaming apparatus of the present invention.

FIG. 1 b is substantially a schematic diagram showing components of anembodiment of the gaming apparatus.

FIG. 2 a is substantially a partial perspective view of an embodiment ofa display device of a prize display.

FIG. 2 b is substantially a perspective view of the display device shownin FIG. 2 a with a band on which indicia are affixed.

FIG. 3 is substantially a side elevation view of one embodiment of apositioning mechanism of the present invention.

FIG. 4 is substantially a partial cross-sectional view of the gamingapparatus of FIG. 1 a.

FIG. 5 is substantially a front elevation view of an embodiment of agaming apparatus of the present invention.

FIG. 6 is substantially a flowchart of a gaming method of the presentinvention.

FIG. 7 is substantially a front perspective view of an embodiment of agaming apparatus of the present invention.

FIG. 8 is substantially a side elevation view of an embodiment of agaming apparatus according to the present invention.

FIG. 9 is substantially a front view of a gaming apparatus according tothe present invention, including a cut away view showing the interior ofthe gaming apparatus.

FIG. 10 is substantially a flowchart of a method according to thepresent invention.

FIG. 11 is substantially a flowchart of a method according to thepresent invention.

FIG. 12 is substantially a flowchart of a method according to thepresent invention.

FIG. 13 is substantially a flowchart of a method according to thepresent invention.

FIG. 14 is substantially a flowchart of a method according to thepresent invention.

FIG. 15 is substantially a front perspective view of an embodiment of agaming apparatus of the present invention.

FIG. 16 is substantially a front view of an embodiment of a gamingapparatus of the present invention.

FIG. 17 is substantially a perspective view of the gaming apparatus ofFIG. 16 with the housing removed.

FIG. 18 is substantially a top view of the gaming apparatus of FIG. 17.

FIG. 19 is substantially a partial cross-sectional view of the gamingapparatus of FIG. 17.

FIG. 20 is substantially a flowchart of a method according to thepresent invention using the apparatus of FIGS. 15-19.

FIG. 21 is substantially a flowchart of a method according to thepresent invention using the apparatus of FIGS. 15-19.

FIG. 22 is substantially a flowchart of a method according to thepresent invention using the apparatus of FIGS. 15-19.

FIG. 23 is substantially a flowchart of a method according to thepresent invention using the apparatus of FIGS. 15-19.

FIG. 24 is substantially a front view of another embodiment of a gamingapparatus of the present invention.

FIG. 25 is substantially a front view of yet another embodiment of agaming apparatus of the present invention.

FIG. 26 is substantially a flowchart of a method according to thepresent invention using the apparatus of FIG. 25.

FIG. 27 is substantially a flowchart of a method according to thepresent invention using the apparatus of FIG. 25.

FIG. 28 is substantially a flowchart of a method according to thepresent invention using the apparatus of FIG. 25.

FIG. 29 is substantially a front view of another embodiment of a gamingapparatus of the present invention.

FIG. 30 is substantially a front view of yet another embodiment of agaming apparatus of the present invention.

FIGS. 31 and 32 are substantially a flowchart of a method according tothe present invention using the apparatus of FIG. 30.

FIGS. 33 and 34 are substantially a flowchart of a method according tothe present invention using the apparatus of FIG. 30.

FIGS. 35 and 36 are substantially a flowchart of a method according tothe present invention using the apparatus of FIG. 30.

FIGS. 37 and 38 are substantially a flowchart of a method according tothe present invention using the apparatus of FIG. 30.

FIG. 39 is substantially a front view of another embodiment of a gamingapparatus of the present invention.

FIG. 40 is substantially a side elevation view of an embodiment of thegaming apparatus of FIG. 39.

FIG. 41 is substantially a flowchart of a gaming method according to thepresent invention using the apparatus of FIG. 39.

FIG. 42 is substantially a flowchart of a gaming method according to thepresent invention using the apparatus of FIG. 39.

FIG. 43 is substantially a front view of another embodiment of a gamingapparatus of the present invention.

FIG. 44 is substantially a side elevation view of the gaming apparatusof FIG. 43.

FIG. 45 is substantially an enlarged view of a rotating belt.

FIG. 46 is substantially an alternative embodiment of a rotating belt.

FIG. 47 is substantially a flowchart of a gaming method according to thepresent invention using the apparatus of FIG. 43.

FIG. 48 is substantially a flowchart of a gaming method according to thepresent invention using the apparatus of FIG. 43.

FIG. 49 is substantially a front view of another embodiment of a gamingapparatus of the present invention.

FIG. 50 is substantially an exploded perspective view of the gamingapparatus of FIG. 49.

FIG. 51 is substantially a side elevation view of the gaming apparatusof FIG. 49.

FIG. 52 is substantially a flowchart of a gaming method according to thepresent invention using the apparatus of FIG. 49.

FIG. 53 is substantially a flowchart of a gaming method according to thepresent invention using the apparatus of FIG. 49.

DESCRIPTION OF AT LEAST ONE EMBODIMENT OF THE PRESENT INVENTION

In the following detailed description of at least one embodiment of thepresent invention, reference is made to the accompanying drawings, whichform a part of this application. The drawings show, by way ofillustration, specific embodiments in which the invention may bepracticed. It is to be understood that other embodiments may be utilizedand structural changes may be made without departing from the scope ofthe present invention.

As seen in FIG. 1 a, the present invention comprises a gaming apparatus,generally indicated by reference number 10. In at least one embodiment,gaming apparatus 10 comprises a second display 12 and a primary gamingdevice 14. Gaming device 14 may be any of a large number of devices thatare adapted to allow players to play a game, such as gaming devicestypically found in arcade and casino environments, including arcadegames, video games, gambling machines, video poker machines, slotmachines, etc. In at least one embodiment, gaming device 14 is furtheradapted to allow a player to place a wager and play a game, such as aslot machine.

Gaming device 14 may include a value or wager acceptor for acceptingvalue (including currency and/or currency equivalents), such as a coinslot 16, a card reader 18, or a voucher reader 19. In addition, a payoutmechanism (not shown) and a coin receptacle 20 may be provided forawarding prizes or for dispensing value to players cashing out andretiring from a game. A printer (not shown) may also be provided forprinting out cashless vouchers (not shown). A handle 22 and an inputdevice 24 may be provided for activating gaming device 14 to begin agame. A pay table (not shown) may further be provided to allow a playerto see what symbol or combination of symbols provide a winning event. Inat least one preferred embodiment, gaming device 14 may be a S2000 or SPlus model gaming device manufactured by International Game Technologyin Reno, Nev.

Gaming device 14 may further include a gaming outcome display 28 thatmay be positioned in front of the gaming device 14 so that a player (notshown) playing gaming device 14 can see gaming outcome display 28.Gaming outcome display 28 may utilize physical game reels 30, 32, and34. Game reels 30, 32, and 34 may be attached to a drive mechanism (notshown) of gaming device 14 to rotate the reels in a manner well known inthe art. Each game reel 30, 32, and 34 may have a plurality of symbolspositioned on the circumference of each game reel 30, 32, and 34. Gamereels 30, 32, and 34 may be positioned side-by-side with coincident axesof rotation and a portion of their individual circumferences may faceoutward from gaming device 14.

A panel 36 may cover game reels 30, 32, and 34 such that only a portionof their individual circumferences are shown to the player. At least onesymbol from any of game reels 30, 32, and 34 may be used to display agame outcome. At least one pay line 38 may be provided for the player touse in determining a game outcome based on the symbol or a combinationof symbols positioned thereon. In an alternative embodiment, gamingoutcome display 28 utilizes a video display (FIG. 1 b) displaying imagesof game reels and an image of at least one pay line. A video display mayalso display game symbols in many other formats and arrangements, suchas playing cards. Of course, the invention is not limited to anyparticular type of gaming outcome display 28. Those of skill in the artwill recognize that many different types of gaming outcome displayscould be substituted without departing from the scope of the presentinvention.

Gaming apparatus 10 may include a bonus game display or second display12 configured to display at least one game and prize to a player. In atleast one embodiment, second display 12 is configured to display a bonusgame and at least one bonus prize to the player. In other embodiments,second display 12 may provide a primary game. Alternatively, seconddisplay 12 may be a stand-alone device allowing a player to place awager and play a game.

In at least one embodiment, second display 12 is attached to gamingdevice 14 and positioned on top of gaming device 14. In otherembodiments (not shown), second display 12 may be separate from gamingdevice 14 but in communication with gaming device 14. In thisembodiment, second display 12 may be in communication with a pluralityof different gaming devices 14 via a computer network in a manner thatis well known in the art. Second display 12 may also be positionedadjacent to or remote from gaming device 14. In other embodiments,second display 12 is a stand-alone display not in communication withgaming device 14, and it may be capable of independently acceptingwagers, conducting games, and awarding prizes to a player.

With continued reference to FIG. 1 a, second display 12 may comprise ahousing 40. Housing 40 may be arc-shaped and comprise a plurality ofwalls defining an internal space or cavity. Of course, housing 40 may bemade in many different shapes. Second display 12 also may have anindicator 43. Indicator 43 may be a variety of indicators, including twoand three-dimensional indicators.

Indicator 43 and display device 42 may be positioned within housing 40.Indicator 43 may be configured to move vertically (up and down) relativeto second display 12 in response to signals sent either by a controller(not shown) or a combination of an input device (not shown) and acontroller (not shown). The number of indicators 43 may vary, and thedirection of their movement may vary, and may include horizontal,zigzag, and/or diagonal movements.

The shape or appearance of indicator 43 may be designed in various formsand preferably according to a theme of a game. In the example shown inFIG. 1 a, the theme of the game is a gaming device that awards playerswith vacations. Accordingly, indicator 43 is in the form of avacationing person in a swimming outfit and in a swimming floatationtube. Indicator 43 may include a pointer portion 64. Pointer portion 64may be configured to point to at least one of indicia 44. Alternatively,indicator 43 may itself be a pointer, such as an arrow. The presentinvention is not limited to any particular type of indicator or pointer,or any particular representation of an indicator or pointer.

Indicia 44 may be affixed, imprinted, engraved, or otherwise representedon a display device 42. Display device 42 may have indicia 44 arrangedin rows 44 a-c. Each row 44 a-c may include multiple indicia 44. Indicia44 may represent various things, including prize amounts, multipliers,descriptions or representations of merchandise or services, progressiveprizes, or jackpot prizes. In the embodiment shown in FIG. 1 a, displaydevice 42 is configured to present moveable indicia 44, which may movein various directions. As shown in FIG. 1 a, indicia 44 movehorizontally, or on a rotational axis parallel to the vertical movementof indicator 43. Of course, indicia 44 could be configured to move upand down, that is, display device 42 may have a horizontal rotationalaxis.

Certain embodiments of the present invention may provide display devices42 with indicia 44 moving on a first axis and an indicator 43 moving ona second axis, wherein the moveable indicator 43 is able to indicate anindicium 44 on the display device, which may be configured to move on anaxis orthogonal to the axis of indicator 43.

Referring now to FIG. 1 b, a schematic diagram of some components thatmay be included in certain embodiments of gaming apparatus 10 (FIG. 1 a)is shown. Gaming apparatus 10 may include a value or wager acceptor,such as coin slot 16, card reader 18, and voucher reader 19 configuredto accept value from the player in the form of paper currency, coins,player cards, tickets, vouchers, tokens, or other forms of value. Valueacceptors 16, 18, and 19 may be in communication with a controller 51.Controller 51 may be in communication with input device 24. Controller51 may detect insertion of value into value acceptors 16, 18, and 19,and may prompt the player to start a game by activating input device 24.Once controller 51 senses a signal to start the game, controller 51 maybe configured to produce a random number and activate a reel mechanism53 of gaming device 14. Reel mechanism 53 may be configured to displayindicia (including symbols, characters, numbers, letters, pictures, andthe like) on game reels 30, 32, and 34 according to the random numbergenerated by controller 51. Alternatively, controller 51 may beconfigured to produce a random number and activate video display 55 ofgame reels of gaming device 14. The reel video display 55 may beconfigured to display indicia in video form according to the randomnumber generated by controller 51. The primary game of gaming device 14,whether in physical form or in video form, is not limited to reel-typegames, but may include card games, dominoes, roulette, craps, baccarat,and other games.

Gaming apparatus 10 may further include speakers 69 and 70, housinglights 59, display device 42, indicator 43, and pointer portion 64 incommunication with controller 51. Controller 51 may store bonus eventinformation and may have the ability to detect bonus events.

Upon an occurrence of a bonus event, controller 51 may activate speakers69 and 70, housing lights 59, and display device 42, which causesindicia 44 to move. Controller 51 may cause indicator 43 to move aroundan area adjacent to display device 42. Controller 51 may then causeindicator 43 to stop, and pointer portion 64 to point to one of theindicia 44 on display device 42. Housing lights 59 and speakers 69 and70 together may create a festive and lively winning atmosphere to elicitinterest and entertainment from both the player and adjacent patrons.

In at least one embodiment, when gaming apparatus 10 is not in use,indicator 43, housing lights 59, and display speakers 69 and 70 may beactivated by controller 51 in an attract mode. Housing lights 59 mayoperate, blink or flash, and indicator 43 may dance or move in achoreographed manner according to music coming from speakers 56. It maybe desirable that indicator 43 not point to an indicium 44 at theconclusion of the attract mode in order that players close to gamingdevice 10 do not mistakenly believe they are entitled to a prize.Controller 51 may activate display device 42 and indicator 43 upon theoccurrence of a bonus event.

Referring now to FIGS. 2 a and 2 b, in at least one embodiment, displaydevice 42 (FIG. 1 a) comprises a flat piece of material or band 46wrapped around a plurality of rollers 48 and 50. Rollers 48 and 50rotate band 46 about an axis 47. Rollers 48 and 50 may be rotatablyconnected to chassis 52 and 54 and may be connected to an actuator (notshown). Band 46 has indicia 44 thereon. Indicia 44 may be affixed toband 46 by various methods. Indicia 44 may be imprinted on band 46 indifferent configurations depending on the desired appearance of indicia44 when band 46 is presented on second display 12. In the embodimentshown in FIG. 1 a, band 46 may move from left to right relative tosecond display 12 or vice-versa. Thus, indicia 44 are displayed inhorizontal rows.

In at least one embodiment, a light matrix 56 is positioned behind band46 to back-light indicia 44. Light matrix 56 may comprise light emittingdiodes (LEDs), fluorescent lights, incandescent lights, or otherillumination devices that may make band 46 more attractive. A suitabledisplay device 42 may be obtained from Starpoint Electronics Ltd. ofChessington, UK (model FM2).

In another embodiment, display device 42 may comprise at least oneconventional reel assembly (not shown). A conventional reel assemblytypically includes at least one chassis, an axle attached to thechassis, and a reel attached to the axle. The reel and chassis aretypically coupled to an actuator that drives the axle, thereby rotatingthe reel. The reel typically has a strip of material attached to thecircumference of the reel. Indicia are typically affixed to the strip ofmaterial by methods known in the art. Conventional reel assemblies maybe joined in series, typically in a set of three.

The reel assembly may be positioned within housing 40 (FIG. 1 a) so thatthe reel rotates about either a horizontal or vertical axis. Displaydevice 42 may utilize the reel assemblies described in co-pending U.S.application Ser. No. 09/894,197, filed Jul. 27, 2001 and U.S.application Ser. No. 09/968,952, filed Oct. 1, 2001, which areincorporated herein by reference. U.S. application Ser. No. 09/894,197discloses reel shelf assemblies arranged vertically so that each reelrotates about a vertical axis. U.S. application Ser. No. 09/968,952discloses reel shelf assemblies having reels that are positioned at anangle relative to each other, side-by-side so that their chassis areaway from the two reels positioned adjacent to each other, orcombinations thereof.

Referring now to FIG. 3, indicator 43 (FIG. 1 a) may be coupled to apositioning mechanism 72 by a bracket 74. Positioning mechanism 72 maybe located within the confines of housing 40. A slot 76 in the frontwall of housing 40 may be provided, which allows bracket 74 to passthrough the front wall. Positioning mechanism 72 may comprise a wormgear 78 rotatable by an actuator 80. In at least one embodiment,actuator 80 is attached to a first wheel 84. Worm gear 78 may beattached to a second wheel 86. A drive belt 82 preferably rotates aroundthe first wheel 84 and second wheel 86, thereby connecting actuator 80and worm gear 78. Positioning mechanism 72 may communicate with acontroller 81, which may store information regarding pre-determinedpositions of band 46 of display device 42. Sensors 88 and 90 arepreferably in communication with controller 81 and may be provided toallow controller 81 to detect the position of indicator 43. Otherdevices may be used to detect the position of indicator 43, such asoptical readers and the like.

Referring now to FIG. 4, another embodiment of a positioning mechanism150 is shown. Positioning mechanism 150 may be a vertically positionedworm gear 152 that is caused to rotate by an actuator 154. Indicator 43may be attached to worm gear 152 by a bracket 156 that is attached to anut 158 threaded on worm gear 152. A slot 160 may be provided in thefront wall of second display 12 (FIG. 1 a), which allows bracket 156 topass through the wall. Sensors 162 may be provided to allow controller140, or other control mechanisms (not shown), to detect the position ofindicator 43. While indicator 43 is shown to move vertically in FIG. 4,it may be moved in any desired manner, including horizontally,diagonally, or in a non-linear fashion, such as in a rotating or zigzagmanner.

In another embodiment, a wheel (not shown) may be attached to actuator154. The periphery of the wheel may have at least one notch detectableby a sensor (not shown) and used by a bonus game controller 141 or agame controller 140 to monitor the position of indicator 43. Wheel andworm gear 152 may be rotated together by actuator 154. The sensormonitors the position of indicator 43 by detecting the notch. Bonus gamecontroller 141 or game controller 140 may store information pertainingto the number of times the sensor has detected the notch and thecorresponding position of moveable indicator 43. An optical interrupt(not shown) may be provided to reset the indicator position information.The sensor may be an infrared source and detector. In alternativeembodiments, the periphery of the wheel may comprise portions withdifferent reflective characteristics, such as absorbent paint lines,instead of a notch on the wheel. Actuators 80 (FIG. 3) and 154 may be astepper motor, a servo motor, a gear motor, a solenoid, a rack andpinion, or other actuators known in the art.

With continued reference to FIG. 4, an electronic controller 140 thatutilizes a random number generator 142 may control gaming device 14(FIG. 1 a). Random number generator 142 produces a random or pseudorandom number for each game. The outcome of the game may be determinedby comparing the random number produced by random number generator 142to a table of outcomes stored in a memory and accessed by controller140. A number of different tables of outcomes may be used and differenttables may be used for different games. The tables can be designed sothat different prizes have different probabilities of being awarded.Such design techniques are well known in gaming and are described above.Examples of such designs are shown in U.S. Pat. No. 4,448,419, issued toTelnaes, and U.S. Pat. No. 5,456,465, issued to Durham, which are herebyincorporated by reference. Controller 140 may cause gaming outcomedisplay 28 (FIG. 1 a), e.g., game reels 30, 32, and 34, to display anoutcome that corresponds to the random number generated by random numbergenerator 142. Of course, gaming device 14 may operate in many otherways and still achieve the objects of the present invention.

Gaming device 14 may also be capable, via controller 140 or othercontrol mechanism (not shown), of producing a bonus-activating event.This event may be many different types of events. For example, abonus-activating event may comprise a game outcome such as displaying aparticular symbol, e.g., a “bonus” symbol, or combination of symbols,such as a “7” symbol on each of game reels 30, 32, and 34 (FIG. 1 a). Ifthe game being played is poker based, the bonus-activating event may bean occurrence of a certain hand, such as a royal flush. Furthermore, abonus-activating event may occur when a player accumulates a number ofsymbols or game outcomes over a number of separate game plays. Forexample, a bonus-activating event may occur when the player receivesthree “bonus” symbols during a period of time. The bonus-activatingevent may be based on an external event. For example, a bonus-activatingevent may occur when a group of players obtain a certain result. Sensors(not shown) may be provided external to gaming device 14 to detectexternal bonus-activating events.

Bonus game controller 141 may further be provided to detect when a bonusactivating event occurs in gaming device 14. Gaming device controller140 may determine the outcome of each game, and when a bonus-activatingoutcome occurs, gaming device controller 140 may transmit a signal tobonus game controller 141. Alternatively, bonus game controller 141 mayperiodically interrogate gaming device controller 140. Bonus gamecontroller 141 and gaming device controller 140 may be a singlecontroller or separate controllers. In at least one embodiment, gamingdevice controller 141 is the GAM 2000 controller, available from EagleEngineering of Pottstown, Pa.

The bonus prize may be determined by a random number generator (notshown) and a virtual pay table, such as the pay table described in U.S.Pat. No. 5,823,874 to Adams, which is hereby incorporated by reference.A simple pay table may also appear as follows: TABLE 1 Random NumberAmount Paid 0.00 to 0.50 $10.00 0.51 to 0.75 $50.00 0.76 to 0.95 X2 0.96to 1.00 $10,000.00

For example, if the random number generator produced 0.45 as the gameoutcome, the controller may cause indicator 43 (FIG. 1 a) to stop andpointer portion 64 (FIG. 1 a) to point to an indicium representing tendollars. Alternatively, if the random number generator produced a valueof 0.85, the controller may cause indicator 43 to stop and pointerportion 64 to point to an indicium 44 representing a multiplier of 2.The controller may then cause bonus meter 68 (FIG. 1 a) to display“10×2=20,” (assuming a base prize of ten dollars) and $20.00 would beawarded to the player.

The bonus selection process may be repeated for a predetermined numberof times to accumulate several bonus prizes that are added to form theaward to the game player. For example, the bonus game could be repeatedthree times to accumulate an award. The present invention is not limitedto the example pay table shown. Furthermore, different kinds of bonusprizes may be awarded, such as progressive prizes, jackpot prizes,merchandise, services, prize multipliers, and additional games. Othereffects may also be presented, such as pre-recorded sound from speakers69 and 70 (FIG. 1 a).

Speakers 69 and 70 may be configured to announce a prize a player haswon, play music during a prize winning event, announce features of thegame offered by gaming apparatus 10, or play music to attract andentertain patrons. Additionally, a variety of graphics and lights,preferably designed according to a particular theme, are displayed onsecond display 12 (FIG. 1 a). If the awarded bonus prize is money, theamount of the bonus prize may be added to the player's credit meter (notshown), may be dispensed to the player via a voucher or other cashlessdevice, may be dispensed to coin receptacle 20 (FIG. 1 a), or anattendant may be summoned to award the prize to the player.

Referring now to FIG. 5, another embodiment of the invention, a gamingapparatus 100 similar to gaming apparatus 10 (FIG. 1 a), is shown. Prizedisplay 102 of gaming apparatus 100 may comprise display device 42. Inthis embodiment, band 46 is configured to move vertically around ahorizontal axis of rotation. Prize display 102 also may comprise anindicator 104 that is similar to indicator 43 (FIG. 1 a). Indicator 104may have an appearance that conforms to a theme of the game, which is adetective game in this embodiment. Thus, indicator 104 may look like adetective, such as a man wearing a trench coat and a hat. In theembodiment illustrated in FIG. 5, indicator 104 moves horizontally.Indicator 104 may have a pointer portion 106. As shown in FIG. 5,pointer portion 106 is in the form of the detective's magnifying glass.The magnifying glass may be real or fake. If it is desired to have afunctioning magnifying glass, the magnifying glass may comprise astandard magnifying lens, a fresnel lens, or other device known in theart. Pointer portion 106 may be configured to substantially cover anindicium selected by the controller (not shown) and magnify the indiciumfor the player to see. The mechanism for driving indicator 43, describedabove and shown in FIGS. 3 and 4, may be used for driving indicator 104.

Referring now to FIG. 6, a gaming method 110 is shown wherein a playerstarts to play a game at step 111. A controller, such as controller 51,81, 140 or 141, determines whether a prize event has occurred in step112. If a prize event has occurred, the controller produces a randomnumber at step 114. At step 116, the random number may be used to selecta prize. At step 118, the controller may activate display device 42. Atstep 120, the controller may cause indicator 43 or 104 to move.Optionally, at step 122, the controller may allow a player to controlthe movement of indicator 43 or 104 by prompting the player to press oneor more buttons (such as a button to move indicator 104 right and abutton to move indicator 104 left) or another input device, such as atouch-pad, a joystick, or a mouse. At step 124, the controller causesindicator 43 or 104 to stop. Optionally, at step 126, the controllerstops indicator 43 or 104 upon the activation of an input device by theplayer. At step 128, the controller causes display device 42 to stop ina manner that would make indicator 43 or 104 point to the correspondingsymbol that would indicate the prize selected based on the random numberpreviously generated by the controller. At step 130, the prize may bedisplayed on the bonus meter. Steps 118 to 128 may be repeated apredetermined number of times, and the sum of the prize values may bedisplayed. Lights and sounds may be generated to create a festiveatmosphere. At step 132, a total prize may be awarded to the player. Thecumulative prize may be multiplied by a multiplier in order to obtainthe total prize. The multiplier may be fixed or randomly determined.

It is noted that the flowchart in FIG. 6 shows only one possibleembodiment. Some of the steps in the flowchart may be varied, changed inorder, or eliminated and still fall within the scope of the presentinvention.

FIG. 7 shows an additional alternate embodiment of a gaming deviceaccording to the present invention. FIG. 7 shows a gaming apparatus 200having a primary gaming device 202 and a gaming display 204, which maydisplay all or part of a bonus game or primary game. Primary gamingdevice 202 may be configured similarly to previously discussedembodiments, and may include a plurality of mechanical or video reels210 located on a primary game display 208. A plurality of indicia 212may appear on reels 210. A pay line 226 may be included to assistplayers in determining whether they have won the game. Value acceptors,including a coin acceptor 228 and a bill acceptor 224, may be included.The player may activate the game via a button 218 or an arm 216.

Primary gaming device 202 may operate in conjunction with gaming display204. The appearance of one or more indicia 212 on pay line 226 mayentitle the player to play gaming display 204. An example of bonusqualifying indicia is indicium 214.

Gaming display 204 may contain a band of material 240 that rotates abouta plurality of rollers 246. Band 240 may have a plurality of indicia 244appearing thereon. Indicia 244 may indicate various prizes. Band 240 mayhave an edge 254. Band 240 may resemble a printing press, including amagazine printing press, a newspaper printing press, and a moneyprinting press. As shown in FIG. 7, a least a portion of rollers 246 arearranged such that band 240 is displayed at a first position 268 ofgaming display 204 located towards the front of gaming display 204. Band240 then may be directed to a second position 270 of gaming display 204,such as passing behind a roller 274, where band 240 is located more inan interior portion of gaming display 204. Band 240 may then be directedto a third position 272, which may be in the same plane as firstposition 268, located towards the front of gaming display 204. In thisway, band 240 may appear to be passing through a printing press.

As illustrated in FIG. 7, band 240 appears to be a sheet of uncut papercurrency, such as might be produced by the U.S. Treasury Department.Indicia 244 may appear to be currency bills having various values.Indicia 244 may indicate prizes such as an award of currency or credits,merchandise, services, game play, jackpots, and progressive prizes. Band240 may have a variety of different indicia 244 imprinted, or otherwiseappearing thereon.

Band 240 may be constructed from any suitable material. Band 240 may beconstructed from a flexible material, such as various types of vinyl,plastic, rubber materials, and the like. The use of a flexible materialmay prevent band 240 from tearing or creasing when it is moved. Thematerial used to construct band 240 may be transparent or translucent,allowing band 240 to be backlit.

Band 240 may be coupled to a drive mechanism (not shown in FIG. 7) sothat band 240 may be rotated about rollers 246. In operation, band 240may be actuated prior to a bonus prize being awarded to the player.Indicia 244 that may be awarded may appear in a particular area, such asarea 260, for display to the player. Display area 260 may be lighted orotherwise brought to the player's attention.

In at least one embodiment, an indicator 250 is included that may pointto particular indicia 244. Indicator 250 may be configured to point toan indicium 244 that conveys the outcome of gaming display 204. As shownin FIG. 7, indicator 250 is moveable in a horizontal manner. However,gaming display 204 is not limited to any particular configuration, andindicator 250 may move vertically, diagonally, or in a non-linearmanner, as desired by the game designer. Indicator 250 may be lit, suchas by lights 252, in order to make indicator 250 more attractive and tocall attention to indicator 250. In at least one embodiment, indicator250 is illuminated only when gaming display 204 is active or when gamingdisplay 204 is in an attract mode (such as has been previouslydescribed).

At least one advantage of band 240, as illustrated in FIG. 7, is that itmay provide a relatively long path length. Accordingly, it may allow formore and/or larger indicia 244 to be included on band 240. A transparentbezel 256 may be mounted to cover the edge 254 of band 240.

FIG. 8 illustrates certain components of a band display 300 that may beincluded in a gaming device according to the present invention,including that depicted in FIG. 7. Band display 300 may include adisplay device 302. FIG. 8 illustrates band 240 wrapped around aplurality of rollers 246. In at least one embodiment, all rollers 246are idler rollers that simply guide band 240 about the interior ofgaming display 204. One suitable roller is model number E8S001-01-ZZZZavailable from Starpoint Electronics, Ltd. of Chessington, UK. A drivenroller may be included to drive band 240. Driven roller 320 may be incommunication with an actuator 310 in order to drive rotation of drivenroller 320. One suitable driven roller is model E8S002-01-ZZZZ fromStarpoint.

In at least one embodiment, band 240 is driven simply by frictionalcontact with roller 320. However, other arrangements may be substitutedwithout departing from the scope of the present invention. For example,roller 320 may have a portion with teeth (not shown) that could engageslots or holes (not shown) in band 240.

Actuator 310 may be any number of suitable actuators, such as motors,including stepper motors, gear motors, and servo motors. Actuator 310may rotate a shaft 312 in connection with a wheel 314. A belt 316 maylink wheel 314 to a shaft 318 of driven roller 320. Rotation of a shaft312 drives wheel 314 which in turn drives belt 316. The rotational forceis passed from belt 316 to shaft 318. Rotation of shaft 318 may driverotation of driven roller 320. Frictional contact with rotating drivenroller 320 moves band 240. Optionally, an idler wheel or pulley (notshown) can be included on the opposing side of band 240 in order toincrease the frictional contact of band 240 with driven roller 320.

In another embodiment, actuator 310 may be a stepper motor rotating adrive gear (not shown). The drive gear may be in communication with aspur gear (not shown) driving an idler shaft (not shown). The idlershaft in turn may be in communication with driven roller 320. The idlershaft may also used to help transfer power to the side of band 240 notlocated by actuator 310.

In at least one embodiment, band 240 may pass over an area proximateindicator 250. As shown in FIG. 8, indicator 250 may be attached to aworm gear 340. Worm gear 340 may be in communication with a suitableactuator 332, such as a servo motor, stepper motor, or the like.Indicator 250 may be attached to a bracket 342. Bracket 342 may bethreadably attached to worm gear 340.

In at least one embodiment, indicator 250 includes one or more lights252 in order to call attention to indicator 250 and make indicator 250more attractive. Lights 252 may be of any suitable type, including lightemitting diodes (LEDs). Both lights 252 and indicator actuator 332 maybe in communication with a controller, such as controller 360.

Controller 360 may direct lights 252 to illuminate and deactivate inaccordance with game events, such as the execution of an attract mode,or a game outcome qualifying a player to play gaming display 204.Controller 360 also may direct the movement of indicator 250. Forexample, controller 360 may move indicator 250 upon activation of gamingdisplay 204. Controller 360 may direct indicator 250 to stop, such aswhen a player activates buttons 222.

Controller 360 also may determine the position of indicator 250, forexample if the controller is preset with the starting position ofindicator 250, controller 360 may track the position of indicator 250 byknowing in which direction (or directions) indicator 250 was moved, howfast it was moved, and for what period of time. Depending on theactuator 332 used, actuator 332 may provide feedback as to the positionof indicator 250 (for example, if an indexing stepper motor is used).

It may be beneficial to provide an additional position sensor forindicator 250. Those of skill in the art will recognize that varioustypes of sensors could be used to track the position of indicator 250.In one embodiment, optical sensors are used. For example, an infraredsignal generator may be included on one side of worm gear 340 (see FIG.9). An infrared detector may be placed on the other side of worm gear340 (FIG. 9). When indicator 250 is not in between the generator anddetector, the detector detects the infrared signal. When indicator 250is interposed between the signal generator and detector, the detectordoes not detect a signal. Therefore, when the signal is interrupted,controller 360 knows the position of indicator 250. Such a positioningsystem may be a useful way to calibrate indicator 250.

Of course, other systems can be used, or additional signal generatorsand detectors used, including those that may allow for constant trackingof indicator 250. For example, an optical sensor (not shown) may beattached to bracket 342. Optical readable indicia and patterns may beplaced along worm gear 340. As bracket 342 travels along worm gear 340the sensor may read the indicia or patterns and communicate the positionof indicator 250 to controller 360.

Controller 360 may also be in communication with a housing 328 that mayhave a plurality of lights 330. Lights 330 may be any suitableillumination device, including LEDs, fluorescent lamps, and incandescentlamps. Lights 330 may be activated by signals sent from controller 360in response to game events. Lights 330 may be used to backlight band240. Illumination of band 240 may result in a more appealing look forgaming display 204 and call more attention to the area of band 240 onwhich indicator 250 may indicate a prize.

Housing 328 may also contain a guide 326. Guide 326 may provide asurface to help position band 240. For example, guide 326 may helpmaintain band 240 in a taut position, and keep band 240 from wrinkling,creasing, tearing, or getting caught in any of the actuating mechanisms,including the actuating mechanism for indicator 250.

Controller 360 may also be in communication with a positioning systemfor band 240. It may be beneficial to be able to track the position ofband 240. For example, when a game outcome is determined, it isimportant to make sure that indicator 250 points to the appropriateindicium or indicia on band 240.

Many suitable positioning systems can be used, including those used forindicator 250. For example, an infrared signal source 362 can beincluded on one side of band 240. An infrared detector 364 may belocated on the opposing side of band 240. Infrared blocking materialsmay be placed at one or more locations on band 240. By tracking when theinfrared signal is blocked, controller 360 may be able to calibrateand/or constantly track the position of band 240 and any indiciaappearing thereon.

In an alternative embodiment, a side of band 240 contains a series ofholes (not shown), cut-out portions, or similar optical interrupts. Theoptical interrupts may be read by an optical reader (not shown). Theoptical interrupts may convey the position of band 240 to controller360.

Of course, gaming display 204 may be calibrated by the gaming operatorfrom time to time, and position data from actuator 310, such as anindexing stepper motor, may also be used to track the position of band240.

In at least one embodiment, the components of band display 300 shown inFIGS. 8 and 9 are modular in nature. That is, band 240, indicator, 250,and their actuating mechanisms may be added and removed from a gamingdevice as a unit. For example, as shown in FIG. 8, a hook 304 having aslot 306 may be attached to the frame of band display 300, such as byfasteners 308, such as bolts or rivets. A receiver (not shown), such asa bar, may be provided within the gaming device for attachment to hook304.

FIG. 9 presents an alternate view of a gaming device according to thepresent invention. A portion 370 is a cut away view of the inner portionof an embodiment of gaming display 204. Portion 372 is an outer view ofthe embodiment.

In FIG. 9, it can be seen that in at least one embodiment, rollers 246are fitted with a plurality of wheels 380. Wheels 380 may be made of amaterial that maintains strong frictional contact with band 240. Wheels380 are preferably constructed of, or coated with, a relativelynon-abrasive material so as not to damage band 240. For example, wheels380 may be made of various types of rubber, plastic, and similarmaterials.

Rollers 246 may be provided with a tensioning system that may both helpmaintain the position of rollers 246, and maintain pressure on rollers246 in order to ensure that band 240 is taut. The tensioning system mayinclude a base 381, which may be mounted to the frame of gaming display204 (FIG. 7). Base 381 may be coupled to a biasing device 383, such as aspring. Biasing device 383 may be coupled to a moveable mounting area385. Moveable mounting area 385 may be moved along a track 387. Moveablemounting area 385 may include a plate 389 that is mounted to biasingdevice 383.

Roller 246 may include a pin 391 and a shaft end 393. Pin 391 may beheld within roller mounting area 395. Roller mounting area 395 mayinclude a raised area defining a hole (not shown). When roller 246 isinserted, biasing device 383 will push roller 246 against band 240.Roller 246 may then rotate about pin 391 while keeping band 240 taut.

FIG. 9 also provides additional detail for a suitable actuator andpositioning system for indicator 250. As was previously described,indicator 250 may be attached to worm gear 340 by bracket 342. Worm gear340 may be actuated by actuator 332. Actuator 332 maybe attached topulley 382 (which may be a timing pulley). Belt 384 (which may be atiming belt) may be attached to pulley 382 (which may be a timingpulley) and in contact with shaft end 386 of worm gear 340. Apositioning system, such as infrared signal generator 390 and infrareddetector 392, may be included in order to assist in tracking theposition of indicator 250. In at least one embodiment, actuator 332 isstepper motor model HT23-396, available from Applied Motion Products ofWatsonville, Calif.

In at least one embodiment, bracket 342 is configured to resist rotatingas it travels along worm gear 340. One way this may be achieved is toinclude a rail 343 that runs parallel to worm gear 340. Bracket 342 maybe coupled to rail 343. Rail 343 will prevent bracket 342 from rotating,while allowing linear movement along worm gear 340.

Turning now to portion 372 of FIG. 9, there is illustrated a number ofindicia 244 appearing on band 240. As shown in FIG. 9, indicia 244 arerepresentations of faux paper currency having various representations.Of course, any suitable indicia 244 may be placed on band 240. Indicia244 may be chosen to be relevant to a theme of gaming apparatus 200, orgaming display 204, such as the “Bank Roll” theme shown in FIGS. 7 and9.

Indicia 244 may represent prizes that a player may be awarded. Forexample, indicia 394 may represent an amount of money or gaming credits.Indicia 396 may represent a multiplier by which the player's winningsfrom one or more gaming rounds may be multiplied. Indicia 398 mayrepresent special awards, such as a good, a service, a jackpot, or aprogressive amount. Of course, indicia 244 may represent many otherprizes without departing from the scope of the present invention.

In certain embodiments, portion 372 may include a slot 388. A portion ofindicator 250 or bracket 342 may extend through slot 388. Slot 388 mayallow indicator 250 to be displayed to the player, and actuated, buthides the inner workings of gaming display 204 (FIG. 7) from the player.Of course, other means of hiding the inner workings of gaming display204, including the actuation system for indicator 250, from the playercould be used. For example, rather than a slot, the actuation mechanismcould be located below the area of gaming display 204 viewable by theplayer. Indicator 250 could be attached to the actuation mechanism inthis area, and then extend upward into the area viewable by the player.

As illustrated in FIGS. 7 and 9, in certain embodiments pointer 250moves along a first axis. Band 240 (which may function as a displaysurface) moves along a second axis. Indicia 244 appearing on band 240move along the second axis as band 240 moves. In certain embodiments,the first axis is orthogonal to the second axis. The first and secondaxis may be used to define a coordinate system, with each indicia 244appearing on band 240 corresponding to a specific coordinate in thesystem. Controller 360 may be programmed with the coordinates of eachindicia 244, allowing controller 360 to ensure that the proper indiciumor indicia 244 corresponding to a game outcome is displayed once band240 and indicator 250 are stopped.

One method of operation 500 of an embodiment of the present invention,such as the device depicted in FIG. 7, is illustrated in FIG. 10. A gameis presented to a player in step 502. At decision 504, method 500 checksto see if the player has placed a wager. If not, method 500 returns tostep 502.

If the player places a wager at decision 504, method 500 proceeds todetermine a game outcome in step 506. The outcome is presented to theplayer at step 508. At decision 510, method 500 checks to see if thegame outcome determined in step 506 is an outcome qualifying the playerto play a bonus game. If not, method 500 proceeds to step 512 and awardsthe player any prizes awarded according the game outcome determined instep 506, and then returns to step 502.

If it is determined in step 510 that the game outcome of step 506qualifies the player for a bonus game, method 500 proceeds to step 514.At step 514, gaming display 204 is activated. This may includeactivation of band 240, indicator 250, and player input device 222.Lights and sounds may also be activated to make the event more excitingto the player and those around the player, as well as to call attentionto the device.

Method 500 then proceeds to step 516 where band 240 is actuated. Theplayer may be allowed to control the movement of indicator 250 usinginput device 222. For example, in the device depicted in FIG. 7, theplayer may be allowed to move the indicator left and right, and to stopthe indicator at a desired location.

Method 500 proceeds to decision 520, which checks to see whetherindicator 250 has been stopped. If indicator 250 has not been stopped,method 500 returns to step 518 and continues to move band 240 and allowthe player to move indicator 250.

If decision 520 determines that the player has stopped indicator 250,method 500 proceeds to step 522. At step 522, a controller (which may becontroller 51, 81, 140, 141, or 360) continues to move band 240 untilthe indicium corresponding to the game outcome is indicated by indicator250. Method 500 then awards any prizes to the player in step 524 andreturns to step 502.

Of course many variations of this method can be made without departingfrom the scope of the present invention. For example, the game outcomedetermined in step 506 can include both the outcome of the primary gameand the bonus game. Alternatively, the bonus game outcome can bedetermined in a separate step once the bonus game begins.

FIG. 10 illustrates a method where band 240 moves at the same time aplayer is positioning indicator 250. In another embodiment, band 240 maybe stationary while the player positions indicator 250. Once the playerhas chosen a position for indicator 250, band 240 can be moved until theappropriate indicium is indicated by indicator 250.

The player could be allowed to select the position of indicator 250 in avariety of ways. For example, the player could be provided withdirectional buttons and a stop button. Alternatively, indicator 250could be moved in an automated fashion by controller 360. The playercould activate a stop button when indicator 250 is at the position theplayer desires.

As may be apparent from the above description, it may be desirable toarrange indicia 244 on band 240 such that enough of each type of indicia244 are included in order that any indicia can be indicated by indicator250 at any position to which indicator 250 is moved. For example, in theembodiment illustrated in FIG. 7, indicia 244 are illustrated asappearing in a matrix of rows and columns, with indicator 250 beingpositionable at a particular column. Accordingly, it may be beneficialto have at least one of indicia 244 representing each prize that may beawarded appear on at least one row of each column of band 240.

An alternative method of operation 600 is illustrated in FIG. 11. Steps602-612 may correspond to steps 502-512 described above. At step 614,gaming display 204 may be activated, including band 240, indicator 250,and player input device 222. Lights and sounds may be activated, aspreviously described. Band 240 and indicator 250 are moved at step 616.

Decision 618 checks to see whether input device 222 has been activated.If input device 222 has not been activated, method 600 returns to step616. If input device 222 has been activated, band 240 is stopped at step620. Band 240 may be stopped quickly or may gradually come to a stop.

Method 600 then proceeds to step 622. At step 622, indicator 250 ismoved to indicate the indicium or indicia conveying the outcome of thebonus game. Any prizes are awarded in step 624, and then method 600returns to step 602.

Method 600 may be configured to allow a player to stop band 240 in aspecific position, or simply to choose when band 240 will begin to stop.If the player is allowed to choose a specific position for band 240, itmay be desirable to have at least one of each prize represented byindicia 244 that may be awarded appear on each row of band 240. Ofcourse, if the player may not choose the exact position of band 240, itmay be less desirable to include every indicia 244 on each row. Indeed,not allowing the player to choose an exact position for band 240 mayallow a greater variety of indicia 244 to be presented on band 240.

Another gaming method 700 is illustrated in FIG. 12. Steps 702-712 maycorrespond to steps 502-512 and 602-612 described above. At step 714,one or more player input devices are activated that allow a player toselect one or more specific indicator positions. For example, indicia244 on band 240 could be formed in a plurality of columns. The playerinput device(s) may allow a player to position indicator 250 by aspecific column.

At step 716, method 700 checks to see if the player has provided input.If not, method 700 cycles back to step 714 until input is provided. Oncethe player has provided input, method 700 proceeds to step 718 and movesindicator 250 to the position selected by the player. At step 720, thedisplay is moved so that indicator 250 points to the indicium conveyingthe game outcome. Any prize or prizes are awarded in step 722 and thenmethod 700 may return to step 702.

In an alternative embodiment, the player may be allowed to choose aposition after the game is begun. In any embodiment, the player's choiceof position for indicator 250 might be reflected on band 240, such asilluminating a column of band 240 corresponding to the pre-set positionof indicator 250 chosen by the player.

Various additions, subtractions, and permutations of the steps in theabove described methods can be made without departing from the scope ofthe present invention. For example, the player may be allowed to selectboth the position of indicator 250 and to indicate when band 240 shouldbegin to stop (although not the final position of band 240). The morethe player is allowed to interact with primary gaming device 202, themore control over the outcome of the game the player may feel, which maymake the game more enjoyable to the player. Of course, regulatoryconcerns may dictate that the player's perceived control be largely orcompletely illusionary.

Methods of operating gaming display 204, including methods 500, 600, and700, may be set to automatically stop band 240 and/or indicator 250after a certain time. For example, controller 360 could be programmed toautomatically stop indicator 250 and/or band 240 after the passage of acertain amount of time, such as thirty seconds. While it may bebeneficial to give the player some interaction with gaming display 204,it may also be desirable to ensure that each game round completes in atimely fashion.

Of course, certain embodiments of the present invention, such as method800 of FIG. 13, may employ no player input. Steps 802-812 may correspondto steps 502-512 of FIG. 10. At step 814 indicator 250 is moved to aposition, which may be randomly selected by controller 360. At step 816band 240 may be moved so that indicator 250 points to an indiciumconveying the game outcome. Any prizes may be awarded at step 818 beforemethod 800 returns to step 802. Of course, steps 814 and 816 may bereversed or presented simultaneously. Also, band 240 could be randomlymoved, with indicator 250 being moved to indicate the game outcome.

Another method 900 of game play that may be used with embodiments of thepresent invention, including that of FIG. 5, is shown in FIG. 14. Method900 may award two types of prizes, illustrated in FIG. 5 as criminalprizes 108 or clue prizes 109. Of course, the prizes could be called orrepresent various things, have different values than those that will bedescribed, and could be represented by images other than thosespecifically illustrated. After a game has begun, indicator 250 is movedat step 902. Band 46 is moved at step 904. A player input device isactivated and the gaming device waits for player input at decision 906.If no player input is provided, method 900 cycles back to step 902. Ifinput is provided, method 900 proceeds to step 908.

At step 908, indicator 250 is stopped. At step 910, band 46 is stoppedso that indicator 250 indicates the indicium conveying the game outcome.Decision 912 checks to see if the indicium is a clue award or a criminalaward. If the indicium is a criminal award, method 900 adds a criminalprize to the total prize at step 914. The total prize is awarded to theplayer at step 916.

If decision 912 determines that the indicium is a clue prize, method 900proceeds to decision 918. Decision 918 checks to see whether the playerhas obtained a maximum number of clues, for example, 4. If not, method900 proceeds to step 920 and adds a clue prize to the total prize andgame play continues at step 902.

If decision 918 determines that the player has obtained the maximumnumber of clues, method 900 awards a jackpot prize at step 922 and gameplay ends.

Although embodiments of the invention described and depicted in FIGS.7-14 have been described as a bonus game in conjunction with a primarygame, the present invention is not so limited. For example, gamingdisplay 204 (FIG. 7) could be configured as a primary game. A playercould make a wager and gaming display 204 could indicate winning andlosing outcomes and dispense prizes accordingly. Also, rather than beingattached to a primary gaming device, gaming display 204 could be locatedapart from primary gaming device 202 (FIG. 7). Gaming display 204 couldalso be connected to multiple gaming devices 202. The present inventionis not limited to a particular configuration or configurations.

FIG. 15 shows an additional alternate embodiment of a gaming deviceaccording to the present invention. FIG. 15 shows a gaming device 1000having a primary gaming device 202 and a gaming display 204, which maydisplay all or part of a bonus game or primary game. Gaming device 1000may have a housing 1001. Primary gaming device 202 and gaming display204 may be mounted in housing 1001. Gaming display 204 can operatesimilar to gaming display 204 shown in FIG. 7. Primary game 202 may beconfigured similarly to previously discussed embodiments, and mayinclude a plurality of mechanical or video reels 210 located on primarygame display 208. A plurality of indicia 212 may appear on reels 210. Apay line 226 may be included to assist players in determining whetherthey have won the game. Value acceptors, including coin acceptor 228 andbill acceptor 224, may be included. The player may activate the game viabutton 218 or arm 216.

Primary game 202 may operate in conjunction with gaming display 204. Theappearance of one or more indicia 212 on pay line 226 may entitle theplayer to play gaming display 204. An example of bonus qualifyingindicia is indicium 214.

As shown in FIGS. 16-19, a rotary indicator 1002 can be mounted inhousing 1001. Rotary indicator 1002 can have a turntable 1003 thatincludes a base 1004, a rotary shelf 1006, idle rollers 1008 and adriven roller 1010. Rotary shelf 1006 has a ring shape. Base 1004 cansupport idle rollers 1008 and driven roller 1010. Rotary shelf 1006 mayrest on top of the rollers. The base and shelf can be made from anysuitable material such as plastic or metal. The rollers allow rotaryshelf 1006 to rotate.

Rotary indicator actuator 1012 drives a shaft 1011 that can be connectedwith driven roller 1010. In at least one embodiment, rotary shelf 1006is driven by frictional contact with driven roller 1010. However, otherarrangements may be substituted without departing from the scope of thepresent invention. For example, driven roller 1010 may have a portionwith teeth (not shown) that could engage slots or holes (not shown) inrotary shelf 1006.

Actuator 1012 may be any number of suitable actuators, such as motors,including stepper motors, gear motors, and servo motors. Actuator 1012may drive driven roller 1010 directly or can be used with a belts,pulleys or gears (not shown) in order to obtain the optimum combinationof speed and power to drive rotary shelf 1006. Actuator 1012 can startand stop motion to rotary indicator 1002 and can rotate rotary indicator1002 in both a clockwise and a counterclockwise direction.

In an embodiment, several indicators 1018 can be mounted to rotary shelf1006. Indicators 1018 can be arranged around the outer circumference1007 of turntable 1003. Indicators 1018 can be of any suitable type suchas formed form metal or plastic and can be shaped like an arrow, a star,a circle, a triangle or any other suitable shape.

In at least one embodiment, indicator 1018 includes one or more lights1020 in order to call attention to indicator 1018 and make indicator1018 more attractive. Lights 1020 may be mounted on the outside ofindicator 1018 as shown in FIG. 17. Lights 1020 may also be mountedinside of indicator 1018 as shown in FIG. 19. In this example, indicator1018 would be fabricated from a translucent material. Lights 1020 may beof any suitable type, including light emitting diodes (LEDs). Lights1020 and actuator 1012 may be in communication with a controller, suchas controller 1014. Lights 1020 can be powered by batteries or hardwired or by any suitable means.

Since the lights 1020 are mounted to rotary indicator 1002, they rotateand move along with rotary indicator 1002. Power is required to besupplied to these rotating lights. Power can be supplied to rotary shelf1006 by any suitable means such as using wipers, brushes, or inductivecoupling.

Referring to FIGS. 18 and 19, a ring 1024 can be spaced from rotaryshelf 1006 by a gap 1025. Ring 1024 can be formed from an insulativematerial. Power and signal tracks 1026 and 1028 can be mounted on ring1024 and can be formed from a conductive metal. While only one power andsignal tracks 1026 and 1028 are shown, it is understood that severalpower and signal tracks can be mounted on ring 1024 in order to powerand select lights 1020 for activation. Wipers 1030 and 1032 may bemounted on rotary shelf 1006 and slide along tracks 1026 and 1028 asrotary shelf 1006 rotates. Wipers 1030 and 1032 can be formed from aconductive metal that has a high wear resistance. Wipers 1030 and 1032may be connected to buss bars 1034 and 1036, respectively. The buss barscan be mounted within or outside of rotary shelf 1006. Wires 1038 and1040 can be connected from buss bars 1034 and 1036 to lights 1020.

Controller 1014 can direct lights 1020 to illuminate and deactivate inaccordance with game events such as the execution of an attract mode, agame outcome, or to indicate a prize. Controller 1014 can select whichlights 1020 on an individual indictor 1018 are illuminated to indicate aprize 1050.

Controller 1014 also may direct the movement of rotary indicator 1002.For example, controller 1014 may rotate rotary indicator 1002 uponactivation of gaming display 204. Controller 1014 may direct rotaryindicator 1002 to start or stop, such as when a player activates playerinput device 222 (FIG. 15).

Controller 1014 also may determine the position of rotary indicator1002, for example if the controller is preset with the starting positionof rotary indicator 1002, controller 1014 may track the position ofrotary indicator 1002 by knowing in which direction (or directions)indicator 1002 was moved, how fast it was moved, and for what period oftime.

It may be beneficial to provide an additional position sensor for rotaryindicator 1002. Those of skill in the art will recognize that varioustypes of sensors could be used to track the position of indicator 1002.In one embodiment, optical sensors are used. For example, an infraredsignal generator 1062 may be included on one side of rotary shelf 1006as shown in FIG. 19. An infrared detector 1060 may be placed on theother side of rotary shelf 1006. Holes placed in rotary shelf 1006 cancorrespond to certain positions of rotary shelf 1006 and be used bycontroller 1014 to track the position of rotary shelf 1006.

Other types of sensing systems can be used. For example, an opticalsensor (not shown) may be attached to base 1004. Optical readableindicia and patterns may be placed along rotary shelf 1006. As rotaryshelf 1006 rotates, the sensor may read the indicia or patterns andcommunicate the position of rotary indicator 1002 to controller 1014.Controller 1014 may also control other lights mounted inside or onhousing 1001.

Controller 1014 may also be in communication with actuator 310 and witha positioning system for band 240. Controller 1014 may be programmedwith the coordinates of each of the indicia 244, allowing controller1014 to ensure that the proper indicium or indicia 244 corresponding toa game outcome is displayed once band 240 and rotary indicator 1002 arestopped.

It may be beneficial to track the position of band 240. For example,when a game outcome is determined, it is important to make sure thatindicator 1018 points to the appropriate prize indicium 1050 on band240. Many suitable positioning systems can be used.

One method of operation 1500 of an embodiment of the present invention,such as the gaming device 1000 depicted in FIG. 15, is illustrated inFIG. 20. A game is presented to a player in step 1502. At decision 1504,method 1500 checks to see if the player has placed a wager. If not,method 1500 returns to step 1502.

If the player places a wager at decision 1504, method 1500 proceeds todetermine a game outcome in step 1506. The outcome is presented to theplayer at step 1508. At decision 1510, method 1500 checks to see if thegame outcome determined in step 1506 is an outcome qualifying the playerto play a bonus game. If not, method 1500 proceeds to step 1512 andawards the player any prizes awarded according the game outcomedetermined in step 1506, and then returns to step 1502.

If it is determined in step 1510 that the game outcome of step 1506qualifies the player for a bonus game, method 1500 proceeds to step1514. At step 1514, gaming display 204 is activated. This may includeactivation of band 240, rotary indicator 1002, and player input device222. Lights and sounds may also be activated to make the event moreexciting to the player and those around the player, as well as to callattention to the device.

Method 1500 then proceeds to step 1516 where band 240 is actuated. Theplayer may be allowed to control the movement of rotary indicator 1002using player input device 222. For example, in the device depicted inFIG. 15, the player may be allowed to select the direction of rotationof indicator 1002, clockwise or counterclockwise, stop the indicator ata desired location and illuminate one of indicators 1018.

Method 1500 proceeds to decision 1520, which checks to see whetherindicator 1002 has been stopped. If rotary indicator 1002 has not beenstopped, method 1500 returns to step 1516 and continues to move band 240and allow the player to move rotary indicator 1002.

If decision 1520 determines that the player has stopped rotary indicator1002 and illuminated one of the indicators 1018, method 1500 proceeds tostep 1522. At step 1522, controller 1014 continues to move band 240until the indicium corresponding to the game outcome is indicated byrotary indicator 1002. Method 1500 then awards any prizes to the playerin step 1524 and returns to step 1502.

Of course many variations of this method can be made without departingfrom the scope of the present invention. For example, the position ofthe indicators may be selected by the player but, not the individualindicator that is illuminated. The individual indicator that isilluminated may be selected by the player and the final position of therotating indicator can be determined by controller 1014. The gameoutcome determined in step 1506 can include both the outcome of theprimary game and the bonus game. Alternatively, the bonus game outcomecan be determined in a separate step once the bonus game begins.

The player could be allowed to select the position of rotary indicator1002 in a variety of ways. For example, the player could be providedwith directional buttons, a stop button, and a light button.Alternatively, rotary indicator 1002 could be moved in an automatedfashion by controller 1014.

As may be apparent from the above description, it may be desirable toarrange indicia 244 on band 240 such that enough of each type of indicia244 are included in order that any indicia can be indicated by rotaryindicator 1002 at any position to which rotary indicator 1002 is moved.For example, in the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 15, indicia 244 areillustrated as appearing in a matrix of rows and columns, with indicator1002 being positionable at a particular column.

An alternative method of operation 1600 of gaming device 1000 isillustrated in FIG. 21. Steps 1602-1612 may correspond to steps1502-1512 described above. At step 1614, gaming display 204 may beactivated, including band 240, rotary indicator 1002, and player inputdevice 222. Lights and sounds may be activated, as previously described.Band 240 and rotary indicator 1002 are moved at step 1616.

Decision 1618 checks to see whether player input device 222 has beenactivated. If player input device 222 has not been activated, method1600 returns to step 1616. If player input device 222 has beenactivated, band 240 is stopped at step 1620. Band 240 may be stoppedquickly or may gradually come to a stop.

Method 1600 then proceeds to step 1622. At step 1622, rotary indicator1002 is moved and illuminated to indicate the indicia conveying theoutcome of the bonus game. Any prizes are awarded in step 1624, and thenmethod 1600 returns to step 1602.

Method 1600 may be configured to allow a player to stop band 240 in aspecific position, or simply to choose when band 240 will begin to stop.If the player is allowed to choose a specific position for band 240, itmay be desirable to have at least one of each prize represented byindicia 244 that may be awarded appear on each row of band 240. Ofcourse, if the player may not choose the exact position of band 240, itmay be less desirable to include every indicia 244 on each row. Notallowing the player to choose an exact position for band 240 may allow agreater variety of indicia 244 to be presented on band 240.

Another gaming method 1700 using gaming device 1000 is illustrated inFIG. 22. Steps 1702-1712 may correspond to steps 1502-1512 and 1602-1612described above. At step 1714, one or more player input devices areactivated that allow a player to select one or more specific indicatorpositions. For example, indicia 244 on band 240 could be formed in aplurality of columns. The player input device(s) may allow a player toposition a selected indicator 1018 of rotary indicator 1002 by aspecific column.

At step 1716, method 1700 checks to see if the player has providedinput. If not, method 1700 cycles back to step 1714 until input isprovided. Once the player has provided input, method 1700 proceeds tostep 1718 where rotary indicator 1002 is moved and illuminated at theposition selected by the player. At step 1720, the display is moved sothat rotary indicator 1002 at the selected position points to theindicium conveying the game outcome. Any prize or prizes are awarded instep 1722 and then method 1700 may return to step 1702.

In an alternative embodiment, the player may be allowed to choose aposition after the game is begun. In any embodiment, the player's choiceof position for indicator 1002 might be reflected on band 240, such asilluminating a column of band 240 corresponding to the pre-set positionof indicator 1002 chosen by the player.

Various additions, subtractions, and permutations of the steps in theabove described methods can be made without departing from the scope ofthe present invention. For example, the player may be allowed to selectboth the positioning of rotary indicator 1002 and the illumination ofindividual indicators 1018. Alternatively, the player may be allowed toselect only one of the position of the rotary indicator 1002 or theillumination of an individual indicator 1018.

The more the player is allowed to interact with gaming device 1000, themore control over the outcome of the game the player may feel, which maymake the game more enjoyable to the player. Of course, regulatoryconcerns may dictate that the player's perceived control be largely orcompletely illusionary.

An embodiment of the present invention, such as method 1800 using gamingdevice 1000 as shown in FIG. 23, may employ no player input. Steps1802-1812 may correspond to steps 1502-1512 of FIG. 20. At step 1814,rotary indicator 1002 is moved to a position, which may be randomlyselected by controller 1014. At step 1815, an individual indicator 1018is illuminated by controller 1014. At step 1816, band 240 may be movedso that rotary indicator 1002 points to an indicium conveying the gameoutcome. Any prizes may be awarded at step 1818 before method 1800returns to step 1802. Of course, steps 1814 and 1816 may be reversed orpresented simultaneously. Band 240 could be randomly moved, with rotaryindicator 1002 being moved to indicate the game outcome.

FIG. 24 shows an another embodiment of a gaming device according to thepresent invention. FIG. 24 shows a gaming device 1100 having a gamingdisplay 204 and a rotary indicator 1102. Gaming device 1100 can bemounted in a housing 1001 in conjunction with a primary game as shown inFIG. 15. Gaming display 204 can have a band 240 that is supported byrollers 246. Indicia 244 can be mounted on band 240 in columns 1120 androws 1122.

Rotary indicator 1102 may have indicators 1104, 1106, and 1108 mountedin housing 1001. Indicators 1104, 1106, and 1108 are spaced apart fromeach other on rotary shelf 1006. Indicators 1104, 1106, and 1108 can bearranged such that when rotary indicator 1102 is stopped, only 1 of theindicators is pointing to an indicium 244. In FIG. 24, indicator 1108 isaligned with a row 1122 and column 1120 and is shown pointing to a prizeindicium 1050. Indicators 1104 and 1106 are not aligned with a row 1122or column 1120 and do not point to an indicium 244.

Controller 1014 can control the positioning of rotary indicator 1102 andband 240 as previously described for FIGS. 15 and 16.

An advantage of gaming device 1100 is that rotary indicator 1102 doesnot need lights to indicate a game winning outcome. If desired, lightscan be added to indicators 1104, 1106, and 1108 in order to enhance theappearance of the gaming device.

Gaming device 1100 of FIG. 24 can be played using the methods shown anddescribed previously for FIGS. 20-23 except that the indicator would notnecessary need to be illuminated. In FIG. 20, at step 1520, theindicator would be stopped but not illuminated. In FIG. 21, at step1622, the indicator would be moved and stopped but not illuminated. InFIG. 22, at step 1718, the indicator would be moved to the selectedposition but not illuminated. In FIG. 23, the step 1815 of illuminatingthe indicator would be omitted.

FIG. 25 shows an additional embodiment of a gaming device according tothe present invention. FIG. 25 shows a gaming device 1200 having agaming display 204 and a set of stationary indicators 1210. Gamingdevice 1200 can be mounted in a housing 1001 in conjunction with aprimary game as shown in FIG. 15. Gaming display 204 can have a band 240that is supported by rollers 246. Indicia 244 can be mounted on band 240in columns 1120 and rows 1122.

Stationary indicators 1210 may have indicators 1221, 1222, 1223, 1224and 1225 mounted in housing 1001. Indicators 1221, 1222, 1223, 1224 and1225 do not move. A game winning outcome 1250 can be indicated byilluminating one of the indicators using lights 1230. In the exampleshown, the lights 1230 of indictor 1222 are turned on.

Controller 1014 can control and select the illumination of indicators1221, 1222, 1223, 1224 and 1225. An advantage of gaming device 1200 isthat no actuators or rotary mechanism are needed for the indicators.

A method of operating gaming device 1200 of FIG. 25 is shown in FIG. 26.In method 1900, a game is presented to a player in step 1902. Atdecision 1904, method 1900 checks to see if the player has placed awager. If not, method 1900 returns to step 1902.

If the player places a wager at decision 1904, method 1900 proceeds todetermine a game outcome in step 1906. The outcome is presented to theplayer at step 1908. At decision 1910, method 1900 checks to see if thegame outcome determined in step 1906 is an outcome qualifying the playerto play a bonus game. If not, method 1900 proceeds to step 1912 andawards the player any prizes awarded according the game outcomedetermined in step 1906, and returns to step 1902.

If it is determined in step 1910 that the game outcome of step 1906qualifies the player for a bonus game, method 1900 proceeds to step1914. At step 1914, gaming display 204 is activated. This may includeactivation of band 240, indicator 1210, and player input device 222.Lights and sounds may also be activated to make the event more excitingto the player and those around the player, as well as to call attentionto the device.

Method 1900 then proceeds to step 1916 where band 240 is actuated.Method 1900 then proceeds to step 1918 where the player may be allowedto select one of indicators 1221, 1222, 1223, 1224 or 1225 to be litusing player input device 222.

At step 1922, controller 1014 continues to move band 240 until theindicium corresponding to the game outcome is indicated by the selectedindicator 1221, 1222, 1223, 1224 or 1225. Method 1900 then awards anyprizes to the player in step 1924, and then returns to step 1902.

Another gaming method 2000 using gaming device 1200 is illustrated inFIG. 27. Steps 2002-2012 may correspond to steps 1902-1912 describedabove for method 1900 of FIG. 26. At step 2014, one or more player inputdevices are activated that allow a player to select and illuminate atleast one specific indicator position. For example, the player inputdevice(s) may allow a player to illuminate indicator 1222 to point toone of indicia-containing columns 1120.

At step 2016, method 2000 checks to see if the player has providedinput. If not, method 2000 cycles back to step 2014 until input isprovided. Once the player has provided input, method 2000 proceeds tostep 2018 and illuminates the selected indicator. At step 2020, thedisplay is moved so that one of indicators 1210 points to the indiciumconveying the game outcome. Any prize or prizes are awarded in step2022, and then method 2000 may return to step 2002.

Yet another gaming method 2100 using gaming device 1200 is illustratedin FIG. 28. Method 2100 does not use any player input. Steps 2102-2112may correspond to steps 1902-1912 described above for method 1900 ofFIG. 26. At step 2114, one of indicators 1210 is lighted or illuminatedto point to one of columns 1120. The specific indicator can be randomlyselected by controller 1014. At step 2116, band 240 may be moved so thatone of indicators 1210 points to an indicium conveying the game outcome.Any prizes may be awarded at step 2118 before method 2100 returns tostep 2102. Steps 2114 and 2116 may be reversed or presentedsimultaneously.

FIG. 29 shows another additional embodiment of a gaming device accordingto the present invention. FIG. 29 shows a gaming device 1300 having avideo gaming display 1350 and a rotary indicator 1302. Gaming device1300 can be mounted in housing 1001 in conjunction with a primary gameas shown in FIG. 15. Video gaming display 1350 can be a video screen1352 that can display indicia 1354. Video screen 1352 can be anysuitable video screen that is electronically changeable. The indicia canbe displayed as a rotating or scrolling reel or can be randomly shown ina matrix. Indicia 1354 can be displayed in rows 1356 and columns 1358.

Rotary indicator 1302 may have indicators 1304 mounted in housing 1001.Indicators 1304 can aligned with columns 1358. Lights 1310 can be turnedon in one of indicators 1304 to point to a game winning outcome 1360.Controller 1014 can control the indicia shown on video screen 1352, thepositioning of rotary indicator 1302 and the illumination of lights1310.

Gaming device 1300 of FIG. 29 was shown using a video screen 1352 and amechanical rotary indicator 1302. Gaming device 1300 could also displaythe rotary indicator using either a separate video display or on thesame video screen 1352.

Gaming device 1300 of FIG. 29 can be played using the methods 1500,1600, 1700 and 1800 shown and described previously for FIGS. 20-23. Inmethods 1500, 1600, 1700 and 1800, steps using rotary indicator 1002would use rotary indicator 1302, and steps using gaming display 204would use video gaming display 1350.

FIG. 30 shows yet another embodiment of a gaming device according to thepresent invention. FIG. 30 shows a gaming device 1400 having a gamingdisplay 1420 and a rotary indicator 1402. Gaming device 1400 can bemounted in a housing 1001 in conjunction with a primary game as shown inFIG. 15. Gaming display 1420 can have a band 1422 that is supported byrollers 246. Gaming display 1420 and band 1422 can have the samemechanical structure as previously described for gaming display 204 andband 240 as shown in FIGS. 15 and 16.

Indicia 1444 can be mounted on band 1422 in columns 1424 and rows 1426.Indicia 1444 include two different types of indicia. Indicia 1446 aremove symbols and indicia 1448 are prize stop symbols. For example, inFIG. 30, move indicia 1446 are shown as a car. Controller 1014 cancontrol the positioning of rotary indicator 1402 and band 1422 aspreviously described for FIGS. 15 and 16.

Rotary indicator 1402 may have several indicators 1406 mounted inhousing 1001. Rotary indicator 1402 can rotate within housing 1001. Oneof indicators 1406 can be illuminated using lights 1408 to indicate agame outcome. In FIG. 30, one of indicators 1406 is illuminated andaligned with one of columns 1424 and is shown pointing to a game outcome1450.

Other embodiments of gaming device 1400 are possible. For example, moveindicia 1446 could include additional indicia that indicate to move toanother specific row and column, or move indicia 1446 could indicatethat multiple moves are to be performed.

One method of operation 2200 of gaming device 1400 of FIG. 30 isillustrated in FIGS. 31 and 32. A game is presented to a player in step2202. At decision 2204, method 2200 checks to see if the player hasplaced a wager. If not, method 2200 returns to step 2202.

If the player places a wager at decision 2204, method 2200 proceeds todetermine a game outcome in step 2206. The outcome is presented to theplayer at step 2208. At decision 2210, method 2200 checks to see if thegame outcome determined in step 2206 is an outcome qualifying the playerto play a bonus game. If not, method 2200 proceeds to step 2212 andawards the player any prizes awarded according the game outcomedetermined in step 2206, and returns to step 2202.

If it is determined in step 2210 that the game outcome of step 2206qualifies the player for a bonus game, method 2200 proceeds to step2214. At step 2214, gaming display 1420 is activated. This may includeactivation of band 1422, rotary indicator 1402, and player input device222. Lights and sounds may also be activated to make the event moreexciting to the player and those around the player, as well as to callattention to the device.

Method 2200 then proceeds to step 2216 where band 1422 is actuated. Theplayer may be allowed to control the movement of rotary indicator 1402using player input device 222. For example, in the device depicted inFIG. 30, the player may be allowed to select the direction of rotationof indicator 1402, clockwise or counterclockwise, stop the indicator ata desired location, and illuminate one of indicators 1406.

Method 2200 proceeds to decision 2220, which checks to see whetherindicator 1402 has been stopped. If rotary indicator 1402 has not beenstopped, method 2200 returns to step 2216 and continues to move band1422 and allow the player to move rotary indicator 1402.

If decision 2220 determines that the player has stopped indicator 1402and illuminated one indicator 1406, method 2200 proceeds to step 2222.At step 2222, controller 1014 continues to move band 1422 until theindicium corresponding to the game outcome is indicated by rotaryindicator 1402.

Method 2200 proceeds to decision 2224, which checks to see whetherindicator 1406 is pointing to a prize stop indicium 1448 or a moveindicium 1446. If indicator 1406 is pointing to a prize stop indicium1448, method 2200 proceeds to step 2232 and awards any prizes to theplayer. After awarding any prizes to the player in step 2232, method2200 returns to step 2202.

If indicator 1406 is pointing to a move indicium 1446 at decision 2224,method 2200 proceeds to step 2226 and proceeds to move band 1422 androtary indicator 1402.

Method 2200 then proceeds to step 2228 where rotary indicator 1402 isstopped. Next, band 1422 is stopped at step 2230. After band 1422 isstopped, method 2200 then returns to repeat decision 2224, which checksto see whether indicator 1406 is pointing to a prize stop indicium 1448or a move indicium 1446. The flowchart loop with decision 2224 continuesuntil a game outcome with a prize stop indicium 1448 is indicated.

Many variations of method 2200 are possible. For example, steps 2228 and2230 may be reversed or alternatively may be combined such that theindicator and display are stopped simultaneously to indicate a gameoutcome.

In order to enhance player excitement during the game, prizes can alsobe awarded by the controller whenever a move indicium 1446 is landed onor pointed to by the indicator. The prizes can be summed during the gameor may be summed and awarded after the game round is completed.

As may be apparent from the above description, it may be desirable toarrange move indicia 1446 and prize stop indicia 1448 on band 1422 suchthat enough of each type of indicia are included in order that anyindicia can be indicated by rotary indicator 1402 at any position towhich indicator 1402 is moved.

An alternative method 2300 of operation of gaming device 1400 isillustrated in FIGS. 33 and 34. Steps 2302-2312 may correspond to steps2202-2212 described above. At step 2314, gaming display 1420 may beactivated, including band 1422, rotary indicator 1402, and player inputdevice 222. Lights and sounds may be activated, as previously described.Band 1422 and rotary indicator 1402 are moved at step 2316.

Decision 2318 checks to see whether player input device 222 has beenactivated. If player input device 222 has not been activated, method2300 returns to step 2316. If player input device 222 has beenactivated, band 1422 is stopped at step 2320. Band 1422 may be stoppedquickly or may gradually come to a stop.

Method 2300 then proceeds to step 2322. At step 2322, indicator 1402 ismoved and illuminated to indicate the indicia conveying the outcome ofthe bonus game.

Method 2300 next proceeds to decision 2324, which checks to see whetherindicator 1406 is pointing to a prize stop indicium 1448 or a moveindicium 1446. If indicator 1406 is pointing to a prize stop indicium1448, method 2300 proceeds to step 2332 and awards any prizes to theplayer. After awarding any prizes to the player in step 2332, method2300 returns to step 2302.

If indicator 1406 is pointing to a move indicium 1446 at decision 2324,method 2300 proceeds to step 2326 and proceeds to move band 1422 androtary indicator 1402.

Method 2300 then proceeds to step 2328 where rotary indicator 1402 isstopped. Next, band 1422 is stopped at step 2330. After band 1422 isstopped, method 2300 then returns to repeat decision 2324, which checksto see whether indicator 1406 is pointing to a prize stop indicium 1448or a move indicium 1446. The flowchart loop with decision 2324 continuesuntil a game outcome with a prize stop indicium 1448 is indicated.

Again, variations of method 2300 are possible. For example, steps 2328and 2330 may be reversed or alternatively may be combined such that theindicator and display are stopped simultaneously to indicate a gameoutcome.

Another gaming method 2400 of gaming device 1400 is illustrated in FIGS.35 and 36. Steps 2402-2412 may correspond to steps 2202-2212 and2302-2312 described above. At step 2414, one or more player inputdevices 222 are activated that allow a player to select one or morespecific indicator positions. For example, indicia 1444 on band 1422could be formed in a plurality of columns. The player input device(s)may allow a player to position rotary indicator 1402 by a specificcolumn.

At step 2416, method 2400 checks to see if the player has providedinput. If not, method 2400 cycles back to step 2414 until input isprovided. Once the player has provided input, method 2400 proceeds tostep 2418 where indicator 1402 is moved and illuminated at the positionselected by the player. At step 2420, the display is moved so thatrotary indicator 1402 points to the indicium conveying the game outcome.

Method 2400 next proceeds to decision 2424, which checks to see whetherindicator 1406 is pointing to a prize stop indicium 1448 or a moveindicium 1446. If indicator 1406 is pointing to a prize stop indicium1448, method 2400 proceeds to step 2432 and awards any prizes to theplayer. After awarding any prizes to the player in step 2432, method2400 returns to step 2402.

If indicator 1406 is pointing to a move indicium 1446 at decision 2424,method 2400 proceeds to step 2426 and proceeds to move band 1422 androtary indicator 1402.

Method 2400 then proceeds to step 2428 where rotary indicator 1402 isstopped. Next, band 1422 is stopped at step 2330. After band 1422 isstopped, method 2400 then returns to repeat decision 2424, which checksto see whether indicator 1406 is pointing to a prize stop indicium 1448or a move indicium 1446. The flowchart loop with decision 2424 continuesuntil a game outcome with a prize stop indicium 1448 is indicated.

Several variations of method 2400 are possible. For example, steps 2428and 2430 may be reversed to stop the display and then the indicator oralternatively steps 2428 and 2430 may be combined such that theindicator and display are stopped simultaneously to indicate a gameoutcome.

In order to enhance player excitement during the game, prizes can alsobe awarded by the controller whenever a move indicium 1446 is landed onor pointed to by the indicator. The prizes can be summed during the gameor may be summed and awarded after the game round is completed.

The more the player is allowed to interact with gaming device 1400, themore control over the outcome of the game the player may feel, which maymake the game more enjoyable to the player. Of course, regulatoryconcerns may dictate that the player's perceived control be largely orcompletely illusionary.

An embodiment of the present invention, such as method 2500, usinggaming device 1400, as shown in FIGS. 37 and 38, may employ no playerinput. Steps 2502-2512 may correspond to steps 2402-2412 of FIG. 35. Atstep 2514, rotary indicator 1402 is moved to a position, which may berandomly selected by controller 1014. At step 2516, band 1422 may bemoved so that rotary indicator 1402 points to an indicium conveying thegame outcome.

Method 2500 next proceeds to decision 2524, which checks to see whetherindicator 1406 is pointing to a prize stop indicium 1448 or a moveindicium 1446. If indicator 1406 is pointing to a prize stop indicium1448, method 2500 proceeds to step 2532 and awards any prizes to theplayer. After awarding any prizes to the player in step 2532, method2500 returns to step 2502.

If indicator 1406 is pointing to a move indicium 1446 at decision 2524,method 2500 proceeds to step 2526 and proceeds to move band 1422 androtary indicator 1402.

Method 2500 then proceeds to step 2528 where rotary indicator 1402 isstopped. Next, band 1422 is stopped at step 2530. After band 1422 isstopped, method 2500 then returns to repeat decision 2524, which checksto see whether indicator 1406 is pointing to a prize stop indicium 1448or a move indicium 1446. The flowchart loop with decision 2524 continuesuntil a game outcome with a prize stop indicium 1448 is indicated. Steps2526 and 2528 can be reversed or combined.

The game prizes can also be awarded by the controller whenever a moveindicium 1446 is landed on or pointed to by the indicator. The prizescan be summed during the game or may be summed and awarded after thegame round is completed.

Peripheral Indicator Embodiment

With reference now to FIGS. 39 and 40, an additional embodiment of agaming device according to the present invention is shown. FIG. 39includes a gaming display device 3900 that has a gaming display 3902 anda set of stationary peripheral indicators 3928. Gaming display device3900 can be mounted in a housing 1001 in conjunction with a primary gameas shown in FIG. 15. Game display 3902 can have a prize band 240 that issupported by rollers 246. Band 240 can have an outer display surface241, an inner surface 242 and sides 243. Band 240 can be formed from aflexible belt or sheet of material. Band 240 can be backlit by lights330 as was previously described. Band 240 can have a matrix 3911 ofprize positions 3912 that are arranged in rows 3918 and columns 3920.Indicia 244 can be disposed on band 240 in prize positions 3912.Controller 360 can rotatably control band 240 and display surface 241using display surface actuator 310 in the same manner as previouslydescribed for FIG. 15. Display surface 241 can be moved along a verticalpath between indicator rows 3934 and 3936.

The set of stationary peripheral indicators 3928 can include severalindividual indicators 3930 that may are arranged in rows 3934 and 3936and columns 3938 and 3940. Peripheral indicators 3930 can be mountedadjacent to and around all of the sides 243 and surround band 240.Indicators 3930 are stationary and do not move. Indicators 3930 can bemounted to front panel 3905. Lights 3950 can be mounted in each ofindicators 3930. Lights 3950 can be light emitting diodes and can beconnected with or in communication with and controlled by controller360.

A prize indicium 3916 can be indicated by illuminating at least two ofthe indicators 3930 using lights 3950. In the example shown in FIG. 39,the lights 3950 of indicators 3930A and 3930B are turned on to indicatethe prize indicium 3916 as the game outcome. It is noted that theindicators in a row and a column were used to indicate one of theindicia in the matrix of indicia as the game outcome.

In another embodiment, additional indicators 3930C and 3930D could beilluminated to further indicate prize indicium 3916.

Controller 360 can control and select the movement and position of band240 and display surface 241 and further can control the illumination ofthe set of peripheral indicators 3928. More than one of the indicia canbe used to indicate a game outcome. For example, three or moreindicators 3930 can be lit to indicate two of indicia 244 as a gameoutcome. In the embodiment of FIG. 39, indicators 3930 are shown asbeing stationary. However, indicators 3930 could also be configured tomove by the addition of a positioning mechanism. In the embodiment ofFIG. 39, two rows and two columns of indicators 3930 were shown. Ifdesired only one row and column of indicators 3930 could be used. Inanother embodiment, a game player could be allowed to select which pairof indicators point to the game outcome by the use of a player inputdevice such as joystick 3932. Joystick 3932 can be in communication withcontroller 360. When the player input device is used, the player may beallowed to select the indicators that point to the game outcome. Thecontroller then determines the final position of band 240 and thereforeany prizes that are awarded.

A method of operating gaming device 3900 of FIGS. 39 and 40 is shown inFIG. 41. In method 4000, a player places a wager on a primary game atstep 4002. At step 4004, the player plays a base game on the base gamingapparatus. At decision 4006, method 4000 checks to see if the gameoutcome determined in step 4004 is an outcome qualifying the player toplay a bonus game. If not, method 4000 proceeds to step 4008 andnotifies the player of the game outcome determined in step 4004, andthen returns to step 4002.

If it is determined in step 4006 that the game outcome of step 4004qualifies the player for a bonus game, method 4000 proceeds to step4010. At step 4010, the bonus game outcome is determined. At step 4012,gaming display 3902 is activated. This may include activation of band240 and lights 3950. Lights and sounds may also be activated to make theevent more exciting to the player and those around the player, as wellas to call attention to the device.

Method 4000 then proceeds to step 4014 where band 240 and displaysurface 241 is moved or rotated. At step 4102, controller 360 continuesto move band 240 and at least two indicators 3930 are illuminated byturning on lights 3950. At step 4104, band 240 is stopped. Method 4000then awards any prizes indicated by the combination of indictors 3930and display surface 241 to the player in step 4106, and then returns tostep 4002. The game outcome is indicated by the indicia pointed to bythe combination of at least two indicators 3930 and display surface 241.

Another method of operating gaming device 3900 of FIGS. 39 and 40 isshown in FIG. 42. In method 4100, a player places a wager on a primarygame at step 4002. At step 4004, the player plays a base game on thebase gaming apparatus. At decision 4006, method 4100 checks to see ifthe game outcome determined in step 4004 is an outcome qualifying theplayer to play a bonus game. If not, method 4100 proceeds to step 4008and notifies the player of the game outcome determined in step 4004, andthen returns to step 4002.

If it is determined in step 4006 that the game outcome of step 4004qualifies the player for a bonus game, method 4100 proceeds to step4010. At step 4010, the bonus game outcome is determined. At step 4012,gaming display 3902 is activated. This may include activation of band240 and lights 3950. Lights and sounds may also be activated to make theevent more exciting to the player and those around the player, as wellas to call attention to the device.

Method 4100 then proceeds to step 4014 where band 240 is moved orrotated. At step 4016, band 240 is stopped. At step 4018, controller 360illuminates at least two indicators 3930 by turning on lights 3950.Method 4100 then awards any prizes indicated by the combination ofindicators 3930 and band 240 to the player in step 4020 and then returnsto step 4002.

Several variations of methods 4000 and 4100 are possible. For example inmethod 4000, steps 4014 and 4102 may be reversed or alternatively steps4102 and 4104 may be combined such that the indicator is illuminated andthe display is stopped simultaneously to indicate a game outcome.

Belt Mounted Indicator Embodiment

With reference now to FIGS. 43, 44 and 45, an additional embodiment of agaming device according to the present invention is shown. FIG. 43includes a gaming device 4200 that has a gaming display device 4202 andan indicator device or belt-mounted indicator 4250. Gaming device 4200can be mounted in a housing 1001 in conjunction with a primary game asshown in FIG. 15. Gaming display 4202 can have a band 240 that issupported by rollers 246. Band 240 has an outer display surface 241 andan inner surface 242. Band 240 can be backlit by lights 330 as waspreviously described. Band 240 can have a matrix of prize positions 4212that are arranged in rows 4218 and columns 4220. Indicia 244 can bemounted on band 240. Controller 360 can rotatably control band 240 usingband or display surface actuator 310 in the same manner as previouslydescribed for FIG. 15. Display surface 241 can be moved or rotated alonga vertical path.

Belt-mounted indicator 4250 can be mounted adjacent to and below band240 such that it can be viewed along with band 240 by a game playerthrough front panel 3905. Belt-mounted indicator 4250 can include arotating flexible belt 4252 and a positioning mechanism 4251. Belt 4252has an outer surface 4252A and an inner surface 4252B. Belt 4252 can bemade from any suitable belt material such as rubber or plastic. Belt4252 can be formed into any suitable shape such as circular, square orrectangular. An indicator 4260 can be placed on outer surface 4252A.Indicator 4260 can be printed or glued onto outer surface 4252A and havea flexible 2-dimensional shape. Indicator 4260 could also be a separate3-dimensional indicator that is physically attached to outer surface4252A by fasteners or glue. The material used to construct belt 4252 maybe transparent or translucent, allowing belt 4252 to be backlit.

In an alternative embodiment (not shown), belt 4252 may also be formedfrom several pivotally connected segments and may resemble a tractortread. In another embodiment (not shown), display band 240 could bereplaced by a video screen or used with other display devices such aslight emitting diodes. In still another embodiment (not shown), beltdriven indicator 4250 could be positioned vertically or at an anglealong side display band 240.

Positioning mechanism 4251 can include a driven roller 4262 and one ormore idle rollers 4264. Rollers 4262 and 4264 are in frictional contactwith inner surface 4252B. A tensioning mechanism (not shown) wouldmaintain tension on belt 4252. A shaft 4258 may be connected to drivenroller 4262. Actuator 4256 is connected to shaft 4258. Actuator 4256 canbe mounted to support frame 4254, which is mounted to housing 1001.Actuator 4256 can be in communication with controller 360. A sensor 4257is mounted adjacent to belt 4252 and is in communication with controller360. Sensor 4257 can determine the position of belt 4252 and provide anelectrical signal to controller 360 about the rotational position ofbelt 4252. If desired, lights (not shown) could also be mounted withindicator 4260. Alternatively, two or more indicators could be placed onbelt 4252.

A prize indicium 4216 can be indicated by moving both display surface241 of band 240 and belt 4252 into a desired position. In the exampleshown in FIG. 43, band 240 and belt 4252 have been rotated and stoppedto indicate the prize indicium 4216 having a value of 75 credits as thegame outcome. It is noted that band 240 can accommodate a large numberof indicia or game outcomes.

Controller 360 can control and select the movement and position of band240 and further can control the movement and position of belt 4252. Morethan one of the indicia can be used to indicate a game outcome. Forexample, indicator 4260 could be moved several times and the indicatedindicia added together to form a game outcome.

In another embodiment, a game player could be allowed to select theposition of the belt-mounted indicator 4250 by the use of player inputdevices 4262 and 4263. Player input device 4262 can cause belt 4252 tomove to the left and player input device 4263 can cause belt 4252 tomove to the right. Player input devices 4262 and 4263 can be buttons orswitches that are in communication with controller 360. When the playerinput device is used, the player may be allowed to move the belt andtherefore the indicator 4260 to a desired position. The controller 360then determines the final position of display surface 241 and thereforeany prizes that are awarded.

Turning now to FIG. 46, an alternative embodiment of an indicator deviceor belt-mounted indicator 4500 is shown. Belt-mounted indicator 4500 caninclude a rotating toothed belt 4502 that has an outer surface 4504 andan inner surface 4505. Teeth 4506 are arranged on inner surface 4505.Toothed belt 4502 can be made from any suitable belt material such asrubber or plastic. An indicator 4560 can be placed on outer surface4504. Indicator 4560 can be printed onto surface 4504 and have a2-dimensional shape (not shown). Indicator 4560 could also be a3-dimensional indicator that is physically attached to outer surface4504 by a bracket 4532.

Belt-mounted indicator 4500 can include a pair of gears 4514 and 4516that have shafts 4510 and 4512. Gears 4514 and 4516 have teeth 4520.Teeth 4520 mate and are engaged with teeth 4506. One of the shafts 4510or 4512 would be connected to actuator 4256 (FIG. 45). A tensioningmechanism (not shown) would maintain tension on toothed belt 4502. Therotation of gears 4514 and 4516 causes toothed belt 4502 to rotate.Belt-mounted indicator 4500 can be operated in the same manner aspreviously described for belt-mounted indicator 4250.

A method of operating gaming device 4200 of FIG. 43 is shown in FIG. 47.In method 4600, a player places a wager on a primary game at step 4002.At step 4004, the player plays a base game on the base gaming apparatus.At decision 4006, method 4600 checks to see if the game outcomedetermined in step 4004 is an outcome qualifying the player to play abonus game. If not, method 4600 proceeds to step 4008 and notifies theplayer of the game outcome determined in step 4004, and returns to step4002.

If it is determined in step 4006 that the game outcome of step 4004qualifies the player for a bonus game, method 4600 proceeds to step4010. At step 4010, the bonus game outcome is determined. At step 4612,gaming display 4202 is activated. This may include activation of band240 and belt 4252. Lights and sounds may also be activated to make theevent more exciting to the player and those around the player, as wellas to call attention to the device.

Method 4600 then proceeds to step 4614 where band 240 is moved orrotated. At step 4616, controller 360 continues to move band 240 andalso moves or rotates belt 4252. At step 4618, belt 4252 is stopped. Atstep 4620, band 240 is stopped. Method 4600 then awards any prizesindicated by the combination of indicator 4260 and band 240 to theplayer in step 4622 and then returns to step 4002.

The indicator conveys the game outcome by pointing to one of the indiciaon display surface 241.

Another method of operating gaming device 4200 of FIG. 43 is shown inFIG. 48. In method 4700, a player places a wager on a primary game atstep 4002. At step 4004, the player plays a base game on the base gamingapparatus. At decision 4006, method 4700 checks to see if the gameoutcome determined in step 4004 is an outcome qualifying the player toplay a bonus game. If not, method 4700 proceeds to step 4008 andnotifies the player of the game outcome determined in step 4004, andreturns to step 4002.

If it is determined in step 4006 that the game outcome of step 4004qualifies the player for a bonus game, method 4700 proceeds to step4010. At step 4010, the bonus game outcome is determined. At step 4612,gaming display 4202 is activated. This may include activation of band240 and belt 4252. Lights and sounds may also be activated to make theevent more exciting to the player and those around the player, as wellas to call attention to the device.

Method 4700 then proceeds to step 4614 where band 240 is moved orrotated. At step 4616, controller 360 continues to move band 240 andalso moves or rotates indicator belt 4252. At step 4702 band 240 isstopped. At step 4704, indicator belt 4252 is stopped. Method 4700 thenawards any prizes indicated by the combination of indicator 4260 andband 240 to the player in step 4622 and then returns to step 4002.

Several variations of methods 4600 and 4700 are possible. For example,steps 4614 and 4616 may be reversed, or alternatively steps 4618 and4620 in method 4600, or steps 4702 and 4704 in method 4700, may becombined such that the indicator and the display are stoppedsimultaneously to indicate a game outcome.

Circular Indicator Embodiment

Turning to FIGS. 49, 50 and 51, another embodiment of a gaming deviceaccording to the present invention is shown. Gaming device 4800 caninclude a gaming display 4802 and a circular rotating indicator 4808.Gaming device 4800 can be mounted in a housing 1001 in conjunction witha primary game as shown in FIG. 15. Gaming display 4802 can have a band240 that is supported for rotation by rollers 246. Band 240 has an outerdisplay surface 241 and an inner surface 242. Band 240 can be backlit bylights 330 as was previously described. Band 240 can have a number ofindicia 244 that are mounted on band 240. The indicia 244 visible to theplayer change as the band is rotated. Indicia 244 can be arranged in acircular manner on display surface 241. The indicia can also be shown ina pie-shaped circle (not shown) on display surface 241. Controller 360can rotatably control band 240 in the same manner as previouslydescribed for FIG. 15.

Circular rotating indicator 4808 has an aperture 4819 and can be mountedin front of band 240 such that at least a portion of display surface 241and indicia 244 can be viewed through aperture 4819 by a game player.Circular rotating indicator 4808 can include a wheel or ring 4810 thatis mounted in front of band 240 and a positioning mechanism 4821. Ring4810 can include an outer surface 4813, an inner surface 4812, a frontsurface 4814, a back surface 4815 and aperture 4819. Ring 4810 can bemade from any suitable material such as plastic or metal. An indicator4850 can be placed on front surface 4814. Indicator 4850 can be printedor glued onto front surface 4814 and have a flexible 2-dimensionalshape. Indicator 4850 could also be a separate 3-dimensional indicatorthat is physically attached to front surface 4814 by fasteners or glue.Indicator 4850 may also be lighted or illuminated.

Positioning mechanism 4821 can include driven roller 4820 and one ormore idle rollers 4822 that support ring 4810. Ring 4810 is retained inposition are can rotate on rollers 4820 and 4822. Rollers 4820 and 4822are in frictional contact with outer surface 4813.

Alternatively, teeth (not shown) could be mounted on outer surface 4813and a gear (not shown) to move ring 4810. A shaft 4826 is connected todriven roller 4820. An indicator actuator 4824 is connected to shaft4826. Indicator actuator 4824 would be mounted to housing 1001 by asupport member 4825. Indicator actuator 4824 is in communication withcontroller 360.

A sensor 4827 can be mounted adjacent to ring 4810 and can be incommunication with controller 360. Sensor 4827 can determine theposition of ring 4810 and provide an electrical signal to controller 360about the rotational position of ring 4810. Sensor 4827 can be anoptical sensor that senses a series of reflective bars on ring 4810 orcan be other types of sensors. If desired, lights (not shown) could alsobe mounted with indicator 4850. Alternatively, two or more indicatorscould be placed on ring 4810.

In an alternative embodiment, a game player may be allowed to controlthe position of ring 4810 and indicator 4850 by using player inputdevices 4902 and 4904. Player input devices 4902 and 4904 can be buttonsor variable resistors that are in communication with controller 360.Player input device 4902 can cause ring 4810 to rotate clockwise. Playerinput device 4904 can cause ring 4810 to rotate counter-clockwise. Whenthe player input device is used, the player may be allowed to rotate thering and therefore move the indicator to a desired position. Thecontroller then determines the final position of display surface 241 andtherefore any prizes that are indicated

A game outcome 4806 can be indicated by moving both display surface 241and ring 4810 into a desired position. In the example shown in FIG. 49,band 240 and ring 4810 have been rotated and stopped to indicate thegame outcome 4806 having a value of 20 credits as the game outcome. Itis noted that band 240 can accommodate a large number of indicia, orgame outcomes.

Controller 360 can control and select the movement and position of band240 and further can control the movement and position of ring 4810. Morethan one of the indicia can be used to indicate a game outcome. Forexample, indicator 4850 could be moved several times and the indicatedindicia added together to form a game outcome.

In an alternative embodiment (not shown), ring 4810 could be mountedbehind band 240 and display surface 241 such that only the sides of ring4810 extend beyond band 240 and are visible.

A method of operating gaming device 4800 is shown in FIG. 52. In method5000, a player places a wager on a primary game at step 5002. At step5004, the player plays a base game on the base gaming apparatus. Atdecision 5006, method 5000 checks to see if the game outcome determinedin step 5004 is an outcome qualifying the player to play a bonus game.If not, method 5000 proceeds to step 5008 and notifies the player of thegame outcome determined in step 5004, and then returns to step 5002.

If it is determined in step 5006 that the game outcome of step 5004qualifies the player for a bonus game, method 5000 proceeds to step5010. At step 5010, the bonus game outcome is determined. At step 5012,gaming display 4802 is activated. This may include activation of band240 and ring 4810. Lights and sounds may also be activated to make theevent more exciting to the player and those around the player, as wellas to call attention to the device.

Method 5000 then proceeds to step 5014 where band 240 is moved orrotated. At step 5016, controller 360 continues to move band 240 andalso moves or rotates ring 4810. At step 5018, ring 4810 is stopped. Atstep 5020, band 240 is stopped. Method 5000 then awards any prizesindicated by the combination of indicator 4850 and the indicia ondisplay surface 241 to the player in step 5022, and then returns to step4002.

Another method of operating gaming device 4800 is shown in FIG. 53. Inmethod 5100, a player places a wager on a primary game at step 5002. Atstep 5004, the player plays a base game on the base gaming apparatus. Atdecision 5006, method 5100 checks to see if the game outcome determinedin step 5004 is an outcome qualifying the player to play a bonus game.If not, method 5100 proceeds to step 5008 and notifies the player of thegame outcome determined in step 5004, and then returns to step 5002.

If it is determined in step 5006 that the game outcome of step 5004qualifies the player for a bonus game, method 5100 proceeds to step5010. At step 5010, the bonus game outcome is determined. At step 5012,gaming display 4802 is activated. This may include activation of band240 and ring 4810. Lights and sounds may also be activated to make theevent more exciting to the player and those around the player, as wellas to call attention to the device.

Method 5100 then proceeds to step 5014 where band 240 is moved orrotated. At step 5016, controller 360 continues to move band 240 andalso moves or rotates indicator ring 4810. At step 510, band 240 isstopped. At step 5104, indicator ring 4810 is stopped. Method 5100 thenawards any prizes indicated by the combination of indicator 4850 and theindicia on display surface 241 to the player in step 5022, and thenreturns to step 5002.

Several variations of methods 5000 and 5100 are possible. For example,steps 5014 and 5016 may be reversed or alternatively steps 5018 and 5020in method 5000, or steps 5102 and 5104 in method 5100, may be combinedsuch that the indicator ring and the display are stopped simultaneouslyto indicate a game outcome.

CONCLUSION

It can thus be realized that certain embodiments of the presentinvention provide a highly attractive and entertaining device fordisplaying prizes. Certain embodiments of the present invention furtherprovide a prize belt and an indicator to indicate a bonus prize. Thus,certain embodiments of the present invention can easily catch patrons'attention and invite patrons to play the game. Certain embodiments mayfurther cause players to play longer because the display device enhancesthe anticipation, stimulation, and excitement experienced by players.

Other embodiments add intermediate steps between the occurrence of thebonus event and the awarding of the bonus prize to add an additionalelement of anticipation, surprise, and excitement for the players. Forexample, an indicator may indicate another symbol representing anotherprize to be added to the player's total prize. An indicator may indicateanother symbol representing a multiplier, which may be used to multiplythe player's prize. An indicator may indicate that the display andindicator are to move to another symbol representing a different oradditional prize.

Although the description above contains many specifications, theseshould not be construed as limiting the scope of the invention but asmerely providing illustrations of some of the presently preferredembodiments of this invention. Thus, the scope of the invention shouldbe determined by the appended claims and their legal equivalents ratherthan by the examples given.

1. A gaming apparatus comprising: (A) a display device having a moveabledisplay surface, the moveable display surface having a plurality ofindicia; (B) a rotating indicator mounted adjacent the moveable displaysurface, the rotating indicator being adapted to point to at least oneof the indicia, the rotating indicator comprising: (a) a ring; (b) atleast one indicator disposed on the ring; and (c) a positioningmechanism coupled to the ring and operable to move the ring.
 2. Thegaming apparatus of claim 1, wherein the positioning mechanism furthercomprises: (A) an actuator coupled to the ring; and (B) a controller incommunication with the actuator, the controller being configured to movethe ring such that the indicator points to at least one of the indicia.3. The gaming apparatus of claim 2, wherein the ring has an aperture. 4.The gaming apparatus of claim 3, wherein the indicia are visible throughthe aperture.
 5. The gaming apparatus of claim 1, wherein at least oneof the indicia is backlit.
 6. The gaming apparatus of claim 1, whereinthe ring is coupled to a driven roller, the driven roller being coupledto an actuator.
 7. The gaming apparatus of claim 1, wherein a playerinput device is coupled to the positioning mechanism, the player inputdevice being adapted to allow a player to control rotation of the ring.8. A method of gaming, not necessarily in the order shown, comprising:(A) determining a game outcome; (B) moving a display surface, thedisplay surface having a plurality of indicia; (C) rotating anindicator; (D) stopping the display surface; and (E) stopping theindicator such that the indicator conveys the game outcome by pointingto at least one of the indicia.
 9. The method of claim 7, furthercomprising allowing a player to control rotational movement of theindicator.
 10. A gaming apparatus comprising: (A) display surface meansfor displaying a plurality of indicia; (B) display surface actuatormeans for moving the display surface means, the display surface actuatormeans being coupled to the display surface means; (C) rotary indicatormeans for indicating at least one of the indicia; and (D) positioningmeans for moving the rotary indicator means, the positioning means beingcoupled to the rotary indicator means.
 11. The gaming apparatus of claim10, further comprising controller means for controlling movement of thedisplay surface means and the rotary indicator means, the controllermeans being in communication with the display surface actuator means andthe positioning means.
 12. The gaming apparatus of claim 10, furthercomprising player input means for allowing a player to control movementof the rotary indicator means.
 13. The gaming apparatus of claim 12,wherein the player input means allow a player to move the rotaryindicator means in either a clockwise or counterclockwise direction. 14.The gaming apparatus of claim 10, wherein the indicia are arranged in acircle.
 15. A gaming apparatus comprising: (A) a moveable displaysurface; (B) a plurality of indicia mounted on the display surface; (C)a display surface actuator coupled to the moveable display surface; (D)a wheel positioned in front of the moveable display surface; (E) anindicator disposed on the wheel; (F) an indicator actuator coupled tothe wheel; and (G) a controller in communication with the displaysurface actuator and the indicator actuator, the controller beingconfigured to: (a) determine a game outcome; (b) move the displaysurface; (c) rotate the wheel; (d) stop the display surface; and (e)stop rotation of the wheel such that in combination, the moveabledisplay surface and the indicator indicate at least one of the indiciaas the game outcome.
 16. The gaming apparatus of claim 15, wherein thedisplay surface is a flexible band.
 17. The gaming apparatus of claim15, wherein the wheel has an aperture.
 18. The gaming apparatus of claim17, wherein the indicia are arranged in a circle.
 19. The gamingapparatus of claim 18, wherein when the rotary indicator is stopped, theindicia are visible through the aperture.
 20. The gaming apparatus ofclaim 15, wherein a player input device is in communication with thecontroller, the player input device being adapted to at least partiallycontrol rotational movement of the rotary indicator.
 21. The gamingapparatus of claim 20, wherein a player is allowed to select the finalposition of the indicator using the player input device.